Last updated 19:40, Thursday, 15 May 2008

A MARYPORT couple who have fostered 150 children are off to Buckingham Palace for Royal recognition today.

Susan and Barry Shearman will collect their MBEs in honour of the life-changing work they have done helping youngsters in need for nearly 28 years.

The couple’s nomination praised their “resilience and determination to see placements through in the face of adversity”.

They have also used their experience to advise and support other carers.

During their time working with Cumbria County Council’s children’s services team, Mr and Mrs Shearman have also brought up their own family.

Mrs Shearman believes fostering brings its own rewards but is delighted to have been nominated for an MBE.

She said: “We get a huge lot of satisfaction from taking these children into the looked-after system – through no fault of their own – and seeing them achieve and do well.

“They are our future generation. To turn these kids around and see them do well is a huge boost. The difference you can make to these children’s lives is unbelievable.

“We have had one girl for eight years. She has been to college and got a distinction in childcare. It is such a buzz to see these kids make something of their lives.

“It is hard work. You needs lots of patience and love, but if you back them 100 per cent, the rewards speak for themselves.”

The Shearmans first became involved in fostering after hearing a radio appeal.

They currently have five foster children aged between 11 and 21 living with them.

Many of the children they adopted early on are now aged in their 40s and have their own children and grandchildren.

The couple have been invited to many of their weddings and christenings and still keep in touch with many of them.

“It is fantastic of them still to think of us,” Mrs Shearman said.

nCumbria County Council is appealing for people to come forward as foster carers.

The county’s fostering team is appealing for at least 30 more fostering households and another 10 carers for their shared care scheme.