FOSTER families from Halton came together over afternoon tea to fundraise and make plans to recruit new foster carers.

The event took place at Macy's Café in Runcorn.

Another Chance to Care, a charity set up by foster carers to fund activities and experiences for children in care, organised the event and raised more than £95.

Christine Pugh, the charity's chair, said: "As foster carers we are always on the go, so as well as an opportunity to fundraise, it's great for us all to get together and enjoy each other’s company over delicious food and cups of tea".

Mandi McDonald, who runs Macy's Café, made sure everyone was comfortable in her rustic, cosy dining room in Grangeway Community Centre, Runcorn.

Guests enjoyed speciality hot drinks, home baked pastries, deep filled sandwiches, sweet treats and classic hot meals (for younger appetites).

Mandi said: "Angela and Sharon (foster carers) have been hosting recruitment events here for a while now, and it's great to see more of what fostering is about, we're very grateful to be involved".

Liz Davenport, divisional manager for children in care, children and families joined foster carers and children at Macy's.

She said: "I'd urge anyone considering fostering to get in touch, this room is full of people who provide safe and stable homes for local children, and it would be fantastic to see our fostering community grow".

Foster carers in Halton will be heading to local venues in September, aiming to recruit more fostering families, couples and single people households.

People are very welcome to go along to the following events, to chat and ask questions about fostering in Halton.

The events take place on the following days:

  • September 1: Halton Stadium, Widnes from 2-6pm.
  • September 6: Costa Coffee, Runcorn Shopping City (11am-1pm).
  • September 13: Costa Coffee, Widnes Shopping Park (11am-1pm).
  • September 14: Jellybeans, Widnes (10am-3pm).
  • September 20: Costa Coffee, Runcorn Shopping City (11am-1pm).
  • September 22: Inflatanation, Runcorn (10am-3pm)
  • September 24: Become a Foster Carer Information Session at Halton Stadium, Widnes (from 10am).
  • September 27: Costa Coffee, Widnes Shopping Park (11am-1pm)

For more information about fostering visit www.foster4.co.uk or call 0800 195 3175.