Celebrity chef Ainsley Harriott is backing Wandsworth Council’s campaign to recruit more foster carers in the borough.

The charismatic chef - who grew up in Balham and now lives in Wandsworth Common - took part in a town hall version of his hit TV show Ready Steady Cook as part of Fostering Fortnight, which ran until May 24.

One team comprising of foster parents and the other of young people, who are being fostered, battled it out under Ainsley’s watchful gaze.

The chef helped both teams create a deliciously flamboyant sandwich and a multi-layered dessert.

The former Mayor of Wandworth Councillor John Farebrother announced the foster carers the narrow winners after sampling the four dishes.

The recruitment drive was endorsed by Ainsley, who highlighted that fostering changes lives and is essential to helping children who need a loving family and home if they are to grow up into happy adults.

The council is seeking to recruit 25 new carers this year to care for the growing number of children who need fostering.

A recent study showed that London needs more than 2,000 new foster carers to look after children who are currently in the care of the capital's local authorities.

Carers can be single, married, divorced, or widowed, but they must be aged between 25 and 60 and be in good health.

Ideally they would live in or near Wandsworth. The council's fostering team offers a wide range of support and assistance to carers.

An information session is being held at the Holiday Inn Express in Smugglers Way, Wandsworth Town, on June 3 between 7pm and 9pm for those who want more information.

For more information please contact Wandsworth fostering service on 020 8871 6666 or email adoptionandfostering@wandsworth.gov.uk.

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