FOSTER carers who have looked after Lancashire's children for more than a decade have been honoured with a lunch at County Hall.

The celebration was attended by foster carers, county councillors and senior officers.

The carers had all been fostering for at least 15 years, caring for more than 750 children in total.

The attendees included Susan Ewens and Brett Steven from Burnley, who have been foster carers for 15 years, have fostered nine children during their role as foster parents.

Gillian and Peter Blackwell, from Leyland, have been foster carers for 19 years and have fostered 18 children.

County Cllr Susie Charles, cabinet member for children, young people and schools, said: "It is such a pleasure to have the opportunity to be able to recognise the incredible efforts made by our foster carers.

"All of our foster carers work tirelessly to improve the lives of looked after children in Lancashire.

"The importance of the work they do is much appreciated by us all.

"Being able to hold this lunch gave us a chance to meet the foster carers and to thank them.

"It also gave us the opportunity to mark the length of time that some of our foster carers have carried out this incredibly important role.

"For many years now they have all opened up their hearts and their homes to provide children with a secure and loving place to live, and they make a massive difference in improving children's lives each day.

"I'd like to offer my personal thanks to each one of them, including those who unfortunately weren't able to attend the celebration."