A SPECIAL award ceremony to celebrate the achievements of Buckinghamshire’s children in care has been held.

The county council hosted the ninth annual children in care and care leavers celebration event on August 20, and more than 70 children in care attended.

The young people were nominated by the professionals who work with them, in categories such as overcoming difficult circumstances, and coping admirably with change as well as educational, training or sporting achievements.

A foster carer and two people who have now left care in Buckinghamshire gave speeches at the event.

West End star Segun Fawole discussed how his foster family supported his acting classes and career which has led to him performing in shows such as Motown and Chorus Line as well as supporting artists such as Cheryl Cole - also telling the audience: “I am special and no matter where I am from or what I’ve been through, I can achieve my dreams.”

There were activities outdoors for the guests to take part in based on the theme of the night ‘around the world’, as well as bouncy castles, crazy golf and a penalty shoot-out.

All the young people were presented with a certificate and voucher donated by The Entertainer toy shop.

Warren Whyte, cabinet member for children’s services at Bucks County Council, who was on of the hosts of the events, said: “I am always humbled by the achievements of our children and young people in care and today’s event shows just how much can be achieved despite having to overcome some really challenging times.

“I find hearing about their achievements very inspiring and I am incredibly proud of every one of our children in care.

“It’s been a fabulous day celebrating with everyone.”

Co-host Tolis Vouyioukas thanked the foster carers and other people who have played such a big role in supporting the young people at the event growing up.

He said: “Our foster carers, social work staff and We Do Care participation workers play such a big part in the lives of our children and young people in care and care leavers, I want to say a big thank you to them for the much needed support they provide at such difficult times in our children’s lives.”

To find out more and to become involved in foster care visit www.buckscc.gov.uk/fostering.