FOSTER carers from across County Durham will tonight be honoured for their work at an awards ceremony.

The annual event is held by Durham County Council’s fostering service to recognise and celebrate the achievements of foster carers in the county.

Between them they’ve looked after hundreds of children over many years, providing them with caring and loving homes and giving them the stability and support they need.

Among the awards being presented are to 30 carers in recognition of their achievement of the NVQ3 childcare qualification and nine carers will get their National Open College Network Speak Easy certificates.

More than two dozen carers will get long service awards ranging from five to 35 years, while three special awards will be presented to carers in recognition of them going the extra mile for the children they care for.

Councillor Claire Vasey, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People’s Services at Durham County Council, said: "Foster care has changed considerably over the last few years.

"Carers are now considered part of the professional workforce looking after the most vulnerable children.

"Our carers do extraordinary things everyday for children in County Durham to ensure they have the best possible care.

"These awards show the valuable work foster carers do and we welcome this opportunity to recognise their achievements and say thank you."

The awards ceremony will take place in the Durham Room, County Hall, at 6pm.

Durham County Council’s fostering service is looking for more foster carers. People interested in finding out more should contact 0191-370 6149.