A couple received a prestigious accolade at the special awards ceremony in recognition of their hard work as foster carers to Brent based children.

Lisa Sampson and Aron Rename were presented with the Kinship Foster Care award for their efforts in looking after Ms Sampson’s half-sisters, Megan and Tilly, over the past six, following the death of members of their family including their father.

Ms Sampson said: “We were so chuffed when we heard about the award – it was a real boost for us and the girls. It’s been a very hard time with mum being so ill and losing other members of the family all at the same time. The girls have had a lot to deal with at a young age, so this award is particularly special for our family.”

Dubbed Foster Talk Awards, the event was established to mark the 10th anniversary of FosterTalk -a service set up to provide specialist independent support to foster carers in areas such as legal and financial advice and counselling.

Edward Timpson MP, minister for children and families, and TV chef Lorraine Pascale, were in attendance to hand out a total of 10 awards to nominees from all over the UK at the event.

Congratulating the couple on their award, Cllr Ruth Moher, Brent Council’s cabinet member for children and young people, added: “Lisa and Aaron will tell you just how rewarding an experience being a foster parent is, so if it is something that you have considered before, however briefly, please do get in touch with our fostering team who will be delighted to provide you with more information.”