PANTO stars are doing their bit to grant the wishes of children in care this Christmas.

The cast of Harrogate Theatre's Mother Goose are to help decorate a Christmas tree devoted to helping children in need of homes.

The actors will put stars containing foster children's wishes on the tree in the town's library to draw attention to the county's need for more foster carers. The theatre has offered 50 free tickets to this year's pantomime for foster carers and children.

North Yorkshire County Council's executive member for social services, Caroline Patmore, said: "Caring for children is very demanding and involves a great deal of commitment, but I know from the foster families that there are enormous gains to be made from caring for these young people."

The theatre's marketing director Biky Wan said: "Seeing the delight on a child's face is what makes our annual pantomime so special.

"Everybody knows that Christmas is a time for families to get together, to celebrate and share their hopes and dreams for the future."

The council currently looks after 400 young people - from teenagers in care after a family breakdown to younger children needing a new home after abuse or neglect.

Anyone who would like more information about how to foster a child can contact Fostering North Yorkshire on 0800 389 2362.

Published: 29/11/2004