An appreciation ball was held in Southampton to celebrate foster carers.

The event, which took place on October 12, was organised to give foster carers a night of celebrity treatment, allowing them to step out of their daily routines and celebrate the difference they make in the lives of vulnerable children and young people.

Southampton City Council expressed gratitude to Dirty Brass Hooks, who performed for free, and Seatech Commercial Diving Services Limited, who sponsored the event.

The sponsorship enabled the fostering community to come together and feel appreciated, with many awards and accolades given, including to carers who have been looking after vulnerable children for more than 20 years.

Glenn Skelton, director of Seatech, said: "Foster carers are real local heroes.

"The love and support they provide to children and young people is incredible.

"It’s heart-breaking that children enter the care system, but to know that foster carers are there to provide stability, comfort and support is amazing.

"As a local business, Southampton is our home, and we are happy that we can show our appreciation for the wonderful foster carers who are helping the next generation to thrive and achieve."

Councillor Alex Winning, cabinet member for children and learning, added: "It was a real honour for me to be able to thank our wonderful foster carers in person for the amazing support they offer our vulnerable children and young people.

"We are always looking for more people to join our family of foster carers, we welcome people from every background."

The evening also served as an opportunity to raise money for the Southampton Foster Care Association charity, raising more than £3,000.

Funds will be used for days out and breaks for vulnerable children and young people.

Executive director for children, learning and community wellbeing, Robert Henderson, said: "Our foster carers don’t have to open their homes and their lives to children in care, but they do.

"Their gifts of warmth and acceptance will stay with these children throughout their whole lives.

"Seatech didn’t have to sponsor this amazing event, but they did.

"This is such a generous city."