AN appeal has been made for foster carers to look after children in the Stockton area.

Stockton Borough Council is eager to hear from anyone who has considered fostering and has stressed that many people are suitable for the role.

Carers can be young, old, married, single, male, female, working or unemployed but they must have the ability to offer a child commitment and security.

Julie Booth, the council's recruitment coordinator said: "We currently look after a number of children who would like to live in a family setting but unfortunately we just don't have enough foster carers to look after them all.

"This can lead to a variety of problems such as splitting up sibling groups and moving children out of the area."

As well as usual fostering the council runs a "sharing the caring" scheme which offers family-based respite care for children with disabilities.

For information call (01642) 397212