A 50-year-old Reading woman is celebrating after being re-united with the daughter she was forced to give up for adoption nearly 30 years ago.

Anne Butler from Whitley Wood, is now hoping it will inspire a meeting with her eldest daughter who was also adopted - 31 years ago, and is believed to live in nearby Caversham.

The mother of six found daughter Tina Mullins - born Janine Helen Butler - via the internet and a national newsapaper.

Anne says she was left no alternative but to put her daughter up for adoption as she was a penniless single mother.

She said: "I remember the day so clearly when I handed her over with her best clothes, a teddy and a letter from me.

"I sobbed all day and night and missed her so much.

"It was the hardest decision ever but I knew other people could offer her more. It was heartbreaking."

Tina, now married and living in Goring with husband Ian and their two children, was adopted by Dave and Trudy Harris who always encouraged her to find her birth mother.

She said: "I agreed to meet Anne because I wanted her to know I was still here and had a good and happy life."

Tina has now met four of her toher sisters, Kelly, 24, Leanne, 22, Holly, 16, and Jessica, nine.

Anne said: "Whenever people ask me how many children I have I always tell them six beautiful girls.

"I have always hoped and dreamed we would meet again.

"It's been a long time and I've cried a lot of tears, but I am so happy that I have found one of my daughters and discovered I have two grandsons as well."

Anne's eldest daughter Katrina Jane Spiller was adopted by a couple who had been helping to look after her.

Anne explains: "I was living in accommodation where no children were allowed and I had to sneak her in and out and try to keep her quiet.

"Because I knew the cuople I thought I'd still be able to see her, but the last time I saw her was the day they collected her."

Anne now thinks Katerina now known as Theresa, is married and lives in Caversham.

(Parts of this article appears courtesy of the Reading Chronicle)