Foster carers have been praised by Merton Council for their work supporting some of the borough’s most vulnerable children.
They were thanked during an annual celebration at the Cannizaro House Hotel in Wimbledon Common.
Five of the carers received long service awards after taking on the role for more than a decade.
One of them was Moya Osman, 60, was has fostered 14 young people.
The Tooting resident said the event was always enjoyed by Merton’s carers, who look after more than 100 of the borough’s children and teenagers.
She said: “It is the one time of the year that everyone can get together and know we are appreciated for the hard work we put in. It is a really great occasion.”
Councillor Debbie Shears, the council’s cabinet member for children, said: “Foster carers have one of the most important, challenging and influential roles in our community.
"They provide loving and stable homes to children who need them the most.
“It is important that we recognise the selfless commitment and hard work that foster carers give to children and our community day after day.”
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