Children's homes across North Lincolnshire, including the one based in the Isle of Axholme, have been praised by government inspectors.

Inspectors from the Commission for Social Care Inspection visited the homes and checked on all aspects of the care of the children and young people in the homes.

The inspectors stated that "children are looked after well" and "enjoy a safe and caring environment".

A mixture of observing what happens, checking records, surveys of the young people and formal interviews were used to assess each of the four children's homes in North Lincolnshire.

Inspectors also met the children individually and, where appropriate, their parents and social workers. They also talked to the staff in the homes.

Councillor Margaret Sidell, cabinet member for education and children's services at the council, said all the inspections were overwhelmingly positive.

Mrs Sidell said the report showed a continued standard of high care in all three homes.

And she was particularly pleased that mention was made of the work of the staff promoting education and healthy living for the young people.

She added: "Children's homes provide support for the most vulnerable young people in our society. I am delighted that the three homes in North Lincolnshire have been praised by inspectors.

"The inspections show that our staff are providing supportive, caring and most importantly safe homes for young people who have had many difficulties in their lives.

"I would like to congratulate staff and am sure they will continue to provide the help, support and care these vulnerable children need".

There are four children's homes in North Lincolnshire one of which is based in Epworth and offer a range of services including providing respite care.

Inspectors visited the homes seven times last year, two of the inspections were announced before the visit and five were unannounced.