TWO foster caring families, who between them have looked after children for over 46 years, have received prestigious civic awards.
Mark and Anna Marie Percy and Wendy and Colin Finch have been presented with Silver Kite awards by the Chairman of Powys County Council in recognition of their long service.
Mr and Mrs Percy from Llandrindod Wells have been foster carers for Powys County Council since 1995. They look after children up to the age of 16 on a long-term or respite basis.
Mark and Anna Marie are very active carers within their local community and assist with recruiting new foster carers as well as providing valuable mentoring support to other existing carers.
Mark and Anna Marie's adult birth children now play an active role in providing support to the young people in the household.
Wendy and Colin Finch from Ammanford have been fostering for Powys County Council for 25 years and provide long term, short term and respite care for children up to the age of 18.
"Mr and Mrs Finch thrive on having a full house and have frequently cared for three or four children at one time.
They respond to the challenges this provides to them very well. They also have particular skills in preparing young people for moving into independence."
Cllr Keith Tampin, Chairman of Powys County Council, said: "I am delighted to honour both couples to recognise their long service.
"Not only have they opened up their homes to help others, but like many of our foster carers, they have shown the commitment to the continual development of skills needed to support children needing care."
Powys County Council urgently needs new foster carers to meet the needs of local children and young people.
For further information and an informal chat contact the team on 01874 614035.