SIXTY children under the care of social services are being rewarded for their achievements.

The youngsters, whose ages range from five upwards, have been nominated by social workers, foster carers, teachers and each other.

Their achievements include working on projects with Cleveland Fire Brigade, taking part in a regional sports event, acting as ambassadors for their schoosl and completing modern apprenticeship courses.

Councillor Jan Brunton, Middlesbrough Council's executive member for children's services, will present the awards.

She said: "These are young people who have had to cope with a difficult start in life and that makes whatever they have achieved at school, home or in their personal life all the more praiseworthy.''

Most of the children live with foster carers, while some are in residential homes.