Award for a caring couple

May and Stuart Colgan from Myroe, who have devoted the last 35 years of their lives to fostering children, were awarded a Special Certificate of Merit at the William Keown Trust's Personal Achievement Awards 2010. May, 69 and 75-year-old Stuart, who have four children of their own, were nominated by one of their foster children's teachers from Rossmar School in Limavady after decades of caring for children in need. Judges of the unsung hero awards held in Clandeboye Lodge Hotel, County Down, described the golden hearted couple as "totally dedicated and devoted" who deserved recognition for their work.

"We are very, very honoured and humbled to have received such an award," May told the Sentinel."We are not ones for the limelight at all, we are just so pleased to be able to give something back."

May and Stuart have been fostering children since they got married in the mid 1970's. During that time the couple sold their marital home so they could build a new house, specially adapted to meet the needs of specialised equipment and wheelchairs. Some of the Colgan's children, many of whom have profound difficulties, have stayed with them for a long time. One of their foster sons is still part of their family after 32 years. The couple sadly lost one of their foster daughters, who they had looked after for over 19 years, when she passed away two years ago.

May adds: "We have been looking after Sophie for over 10 years and it was her teacher at Rossmar who asked us if she could nominate us for the award. We were then notified a couple of months back that we had been selected for an award and travelled to County Down where we had an absolutely beautiful day, and Sophie was there to enjoy it too. I was just so honoured and humbled to be there.To be awarded for something that you love to do is very special."

"We already had been fostering for a long time when we took in a little girl with special needs called Avila, who we looked after for 19 years. Sadly we lost her two years ago. We would still find some days very difficult but we are lucky that we had the chance to spend so long with her."

May continued: "We have four children of our own who have never once complained the entire time that we have fostered. They have always been very supportive and we are so lucky."

May says foster carers are in short supply, not just in the area but throughout the province.

"Without a doubt more foster carers are badly needed in Northern Ireland. It is very rewarding work, especially seeing your children develop and grow in your care. More people are needed who are willing to give children the love and stability that they so badly need."