Violence, verbal abuse and theft are among the worst challenges foster carers Rosalie and Rod James face.

But the couple from Borough Walk, Abingdon, insist after 25 years of foster caring, the benefits still far outweigh the difficulties.

The couple, both 62, were celebrated at a party at Summerfield Respite Centre in Abingdon on December 2 to mark 50 years of foster care provision in Oxfordshire.

They have this week taken on a new-born baby.

Carers from across the county paid tribute to the couple, who are among 280 foster carers in the county.

But there remains a desperate need for more, despite an appeal earlier this year which resulted in 10 new foster carers joining the council's list.

The Jameses have three grown-up children and two adopted children, but over the last 25 years, hundreds of children, from new-born babies to 18-year-olds have stayed with them.

Mrs James said: "We still get a lot of pleasure out of it.

"We used to have friends' children round and took part in a charity holiday scheme offering underprivileged children a break. Then we decided to get into foster caring."

Anyone interested in fostering can call 01865 377515 for more information.