CO-FOUNDERS of a Bromsgrove-based foster agency put on a summer fete for hundreds of staff, foster carers and foster children.

Foster Care Associates (FCA) held the meet-up in the grounds of Grafton Manor, to thank carers for their support and raise money for the Rees Foundation, also based in the town.

Jim Cockburn, co-founder of FCA, said: "It’s vitally important as an agency that we continually recognise the amazing work our carers do, so hosting a summer fete is just a small gesture to show how much we appreciate them, as well as a chance for the foster children to enjoy all the entertainment, food and treats that were on offer."

Entertainment on the day included a bouncy castle, Punch and Judy show, coconut shy, circus skills, face-painting and a magic show by Magic Bob.

Director of the Rees Foundation Sarah Milan said: "I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone involved in putting on such a great event which has helped raise funds as well as awareness of the great work of the Rees Foundation. It was great to meet many of the foster carers who have helped shape the lives of some of the young people we now support since leaving foster care.”

With a shortage of foster carers in the region, FCA is encouraging more people to consider fostering.

FCA provides ongoing support to all foster carers including training, a financial allowance, access to carer support groups and organised family activities.

For more information visit thefca.co.uk or call 0800 022 4330.