An innovative campaign which featured real Essex children needing new adoptive families is proving an ongoing success, say social service chiefs.

The campaign, which featured pictures of real children who needed adoptive families was a first for Essex and aimed to raise awareness of the type of children who need new families.

It featured brothers, Billy and James; sisters, Savannah and Ebony; and a group of three brothers and sisters, Daniel, 10, Tracey, 9 and Emma, 4.

The children were among 35 Essex children needing adoptive families at that time and were selected to highlight the need for adopters for sibling groups and older children. Some, but not all of the children featured have been found families.

In a statement, Essex social services says that record numbers of prospective parents have attended information events since the campaign. Last month, for example, more than 50 people attended, compared to a pre-campaign average of 30.

Cllr Iris Pummell, cabinet member for children's services and schools said "We're delighted that not only have so many people attended our information evenings but also that those who have attended the evenings have found them to be extremely helpful in making up their minds whether they want to adopt."

Information events are held every second Tuesday of the month at County Hall, Chelmsford. Anyone who wishes to attend should telephone 0800 801 530.