A WOMAN who helped some of Worcestershire's most vulnerable children to find foster homes in Wyre Forest has retired after 23 years.

Former team manager of Wyre Forest fostering team, Kate Wells, bid farewell to colleagues and foster carers - some of whom she had worked with for 16 years - at a retirement party last month.

The 60-year-old former social worker provided advice and support for foster carers during her career, while ensuring fairness and championing their rights.

After her retirement, she said she would never forget some of the "very special" people she had worked with.

"This has been more than just a job for me and I have been hugely fortunate in working with some very special people, who I will never forget," she said.

"However, I am looking forward to more time for my friends, my family and especially my grandchildren.

"I may even get round to making my own Christmas cake this year."

Alison King, assistant fostering and adoption service manager, said the retirement party had been "very successful", with many old friends sharing Ms Wells's memories and wishing her well.

"Members of staff paid tribute to Kate's passion and integrity and her commitment in keeping children's welfare at the centre of all we do," she said.

"While we wish her well in her retirement she will be sadly missed."

Foster carer, Shirley Nunn, added Ms Wells - who she had known for 16 years - had always been there for foster carers.

"She always had the children's interests at heart and is a very warm and caring person," she said, "she is quite unique and we will miss her."