Foster carers who have looked after youngsters for 10 years or more have received recognition for their efforts.

Five families were presented with a china vase at a special ceremony in Stoke-on-Trent on Monday.

A further 27 families, who have received awards in previous years, were also presented with a small gift as a token of appreciation for their caring.

Those families have 470 years service to fostering between them during which time they have given hope and support to more than 370 children.

The carers gathered at the Plough Motel in Campbell Road, Stoke, where presentations were made by Phil Swann, director of social services, along with Councillor Jean Edwards, cabinet member with responsibility for social services.

The five who have notched up a decade of service were Roger and Katrina Brearley, of Goldenhill; David and Marie McIntyre, of Fenton; Ann Wareham, of Bentilee; David and Barbara Johnson, of Sanford Hill; and Robert and Monica Hopkinson, of Bradeley.

Roger and Katrina Brearley have cared for around 25 children in nearly 11 years.

The couple, who have four children of their own, have looked after twin boys, who turn 18 next week, since the children were seven.

Katrina said: "Our children treat the youngsters in our care like brothers and sisters. Of course we get attached and we can't bear to part with them.

"We have had some difficult children over they years but we find it very fulfilling and have enjoyed it.

"We intend to carry on doing it and receive our award on behalf of all the children - we are a team."

David and Marie McIntyre have also been foster carers for nearly 11 years.

David said: "We have cared for 71 children in all. We felt so sorry for all the children in care homes which is why we became foster parents.

"We have a 16-year-old daughter of our own who gets on great with the children."

Ann Wareham is a single foster parent who clocked up 10 years last December.

She is a long term carer who has had just six youngsters in her care throughout the decade.

"I really enjoy it and find it a challenge. Somebody has to care for these children. My own four children have grown up and left home so it keeps me busy."

David and Barbara Johnson have also been long term carers for approaching 11 years.

Barbara said: "We have a lot of good memories."

Robert and Monica Hopkinson, of Bradeley, have cared for about 30 children in nearly 11 years.

Monica said: "We have now decided to retire from foster parenting so we can spend more time with our own three children who have been fabulous over the years. We could not have done it without them."

Mr Swann said: "It is important that all our carers are valued and recognised, and this is one of the ways we would like to say thank you to our 110 foster carers, who are all considered special."

Anyone who would like information about becoming a foster carer should contact the Duty Officer, Family Placement Team, Heron Cross House, Grove Road, Fenton, on 01782 234555.