THE number of children in care across Cumbria rose by five per cent between 2017 and 2018, says Barnardo's.

The charity for vulnerable young people is calling for more people to become foster carers and says there is a "particular need" for teenagers and sibling groups.

There were 665 children in care in Cumbria in the year up to March 2018 - an increase of 33 from the year before - according to government figures.

Rebecca Quigley, manager for Barnardo’s North West Fostering Service said: “As the number of children in care continues to rise, it’s more important than ever that more people consider becoming foster carers to ensure the right loving families are available in the right location with the right training when children need them."

The charity started fostering children more than 130 years ago. It says more than 65,000 children are living with almost 55,000 foster families across the UK.

It is estimated a further 8,100 foster families are needed in the next 12 months alone, including 1,240 in the North West.

To find out more about becoming a foster carer, or the support and training Barnardo’s can offer, visit www.barnardos.org.uk/fostering, see the Facebook page or call 0800-0277280 or 0151-4880822.