The annual celebration of foster carers in Hertfordshire is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the dedication, compassion and impact of Hertfordshire's mainstream fostering and kinship fostering communities.

This year, the ceremony welcomed more than 80 foster carers.

Some were awarded for their longevity of service and others were recognised for their exceptional contribution to different areas of fostering.

The Outstanding Fostering Award, a special recognition of the exceptional dedication and commitment shown by a foster carer, was awarded to a very special couple this year.

Joan and Reg East, from Hemel Hempstead, had been fostering for Hertfordshire County Council for more than 40 years and were also being recognised with a long service award.

Sadly, Joan recently passed away, making this fitting tribute more poignant.

Other foster carers recognised on the night included:

• Jackie for services to recruitment
• Liz and Martyn for services to education
• Roz and Dave for services to Children Looked After
• Sam and Mark for services to Care Leavers
• Sue and Tony for services to diversity and inclusion
• Barbara and Mark for services to Family Safeguarding
• Lucy received the Kinship award
• Bev received the Shared Care award
• Rona for services to Supported Lodgings
• Carli for services to Adoption
• Ross and Ashley were recognised with a new award, for their services to early permanence.

The event created an opportunity for the council's new Executive Member for Children's Services, Councillor Anthony Rowlands, to meet some of the county's amazing foster carers. Speaking at the event, he said:

"As we reflect on what life is now like, it's probably the case that for young people growing up, in many ways it's never been as hard. There are all sorts of pressures that confront young people. So, the needs of young people to have a home environment which is secure, supportive and full of love has never been greater.

"And that's why I'm particularly grateful to foster carers for all the work they do and why it's so important that those people who might be thinking about foster care, wanting to know more, come forward and contact the county council."

There are approximately 1,000 children in care in Hertfordshire, and more foster carers are urgently needed.

As well as "generous pay and allowances", the council offers local comprehensive training and 24/7 support.