Duncan and Annie Mansell were guests at a special awards dinner in recognition of having cared for more than 100 children for the council.

The couple, who have four children of their own, were presented with a distinctive crystal vase by Glasgow Lord Provost Bob Winter before a gathering of over 100 carers at Glasgow City Chambers.

When the Mansell's names were called out Annie was a little overcome, but she recovered quickly to enjoy the rest of the celebration and later told the Herald: "I was very nervous and embarrassed when we went up to receive our award.

"Fostering is really challenging but very rewarding too. We've had a wonderful time here today."

Despite their long service, the couple have no immediate plans to pack away the cots and prams just yet.

Annie added: "We love babies and we are as motivated to foster now as we have always been."

Duncan said: ""We have babies in the house all the time and we don't feel it wears us down — having all these kids keeps us young."

The Mansells were one of nine carers who collected long service awards from Glasgow Lord Provost Bob Winter.
Foster carers, supported carers who provide a home for young people as they move from residential care, as well as respite carers who step in to give others a break, were also honoured at the awards dinner.

Provost Winter said: "Glasgow owes carers such as Duncan and Annie an enormous debt of gratitude.
"They deserve nothing but high praise for the way they have dedicated themselves to looking after some of the city's most disadvantaged children.

"It is incredible to think of the years of experience they have and the scores of children they have looked after in their time.

"They must have special qualities that allow them to step in when a child's family is unable to look after their own for whatever reason.

"Staging an awards dinner represents a small token of our appreciation and, to be honest, I don't know what we would have done without the likes of Duncan and Annie."

Fostering provides the best possible care for children who have lived through a family breakdown and giving children in these circumstances a stable home where they can develop strong relationships, helps them make the most of their lives.

Readers who have an interest in fostering or adopting with Glasgow City Council should in the first instance telephone 0845 270 0609.