A dedicated Hertfordshire foster carer who has spent more than four decades supporting vulnerable children and young people has been recognised with an MBE.

Reg East recently travelled to Windsor Castle to receive the honour in recognition of more than 40 years of service as a foster carer with Hertfordshire County Council.

Reg has cared for generations of children across Hertfordshire during his fostering career, helping provide stability, support and guidance to young people in need.

According to Hertfordshire County Council, the award recognises his "outstanding dedication" to fostering and the positive impact he has made on the lives of countless children and families over the years.

The honour was formally presented at Windsor Castle earlier this month, marking what the council described as a "lifetime experience" for the long-serving foster carer.

Hertfordshire County Council and Hertfordshire Fostering both shared congratulations to Reg following the announcement, praising his commitment and the difference he has made through decades of care and support for young people across the county.

The recognition also shines a spotlight on the continuing need for foster carers across Hertfordshire, including North Herts, where carers play a vital role in supporting children and young people who cannot live with their birth families.