DEBBIE and Terry Brunnock became foster parents four years ago and since then have looked after 30 children of all ages.

The couple, who live in Bassaleg with their own two children, obviously enjoy their role in providing a temporary home for youngsters.

Like other foster carers we spoke to, the couple said no special qualities were needed except "patience".

Originally, they requested children aged between three and 11 but over the years this has widened.

They recently said goodbye to a baby and presently have a 16-year-old living with them.

They would be first to admit it is not always a bed of roses. "We have had some difficult children," said Debbie. "But we were told when we did the courses that could happen and if we have any problems we can go to the foster care team or the child's social worker."

But she and Terry said it had been rewarding.

"The baby was six months old when he came to us and just over one when he left. It was nice to see him get a permanent family and a settled life.

"We saw him change and when he left he was up on his front and trying to talk, it was lovely."

Some of the children keep in touch and all come up for a chat if they see them.

The couple admitted they do get attached to the youngsters who come into their home even though they are always aware they will leave one day.

"If you have no love for the children then you shouldn't be doing it," said Terry.

They discussed whether to become foster parents carefully with their two children, now aged 18 and 14 but they have always been fully supportive.

"I wouldn't be surprised if our daughter goes on to do the same as us. They love it," said Terry.

While they are there, all the youngsters are treated as part of the family and in exactly the same way as their own children.

"When we first started we said we wouldn't have disabled children because we thought it would be too hard but since then we have done respite for special needs children and it has been great," said Terry.

Other people they know, such as Debbie's sister, have seen how rewarding the couple find fostering and have decided to become carers themselves. The couple plan to go on fostering. "We would miss children about the house," said Debbie.