IT is not a job for the impatient, but foster carers in the district are encouraging others to step up to the challenge.

As Essex County Council launched an appeal for more people to come forward as foster carers, a couple who have fostered for 27 years step down from their duty.

Brian and Ann Surtees from Ongar have four of their own children, two adopted and two biological, so they have always been used to a full house.

But Ann recently suffered from cancer and the couple were forced to give up their role, leaving the happy memories behind.

Mrs Surtees, 66 said: "We love children and it was something we really enjoyed.

"It was always difficult to say goodbye and you always shed a tear but then the next came along and it all started again.

"We miss the children but still hear from several of them who send us photos telling us how they are getting on. It gives you a lot of pleasure and it's been a lovely experience. It's very rewarding.

"I'm very sad we can't do it anymore but it wouldn't be fair on the children when I don't know what my own future holds."

The couple became so attached to one of the children they fostered they decided to adopt him and keep him as their own.

"He was so settled and we wanted him to stay," said Mrs Surtees. "He was only two at the time and it felt like the natural thing to do."

Thelma Bramble from Waltham Abbey has also been fostering for 27 years but has no plans to give up just yet.

The 61-year-old mother of one has taken in more than 50 children over the years.

She said: "I enjoy everything about it - looking after them, making them happy and giving them love, kindness and attention. That's what children need.

"When they come to me they are unsettled and unhappy and when they leave they are happy and some don't want to go. The best thing is seeing them happy when they leave, then I know I've done my job well."

Miss Bramble was persuaded by a friend to foster and has never looked back since.

The only difficult part, she said, is watching them leave.

"You have to brave and put on a brave face but it's always hard. You cry a bit but you know that when they leave they are happy and have grown."

The County council places around 800 children a year in foster homes and is aiming to recruit an additional 100 carers this year.

Deputy leader and cabinet member for children Councillor Peter Martin said: "Fostering can be demanding, but the rewards are significant.

"Knowing you are changing a young person's life for the better is a tremendous feeling."

For more information about fostering call the freephone number 0800 801 530 or visit essex.gov.uk/adoptionandfostering or write to Adoption and Fostering Recruitment, Essex House, 200 The Crescent, Colechester, CO4 9YQ.