FOSTER carers who have opened their hearts and their homes to disadvantaged youngsters have been honoured for their work.

Awards were handed out by Southend’s mayor, Brian Kelly, to celebrate people looking after others’ children. Some placements are due to parents’ ill health and others are down to issues such as alcohol or drug abuse.

The carers recognised at the awards evening at civic house, in Porters, Southend, included those who have been doing the job for one year and others who have done up to 25-years’ service.

Mr Kelly said: “Over the years, I have got to know a number of children who have come through the fostering experience and it’s amazing what some of them have achieved.

“I have seen youngsters grow up to have good jobs and successful families, all because they have been nurtured by their foster carers.”