A KIDDERMINSTER couple have appealed to the public to open their hearts and their homes to young people with severe learning and physical difficulties.

Clive and Sandra Vincent, of Nightingale Drive, who have been involved with The Break-Away and Dudley Shared Care Project since 1987, have two foster sons, Leighton and Jon.

The couple first became involved with the project in its early days in Kidderminster.

Both former members of the voluntary Physical and Able-Bodied - PHAB - group, they found it a natural transition to become involved with the Barnardo's service.

Leighton Crew, 25, was united with Mr and Mrs Vincent in 1990 and Jon Fox, 24, arrived two years later. The couple have seen their two foster children flourish in the time they have provided care.

Jon has severe learning difficulties yet has achieved a great deal over the years.

He is a sports enthusiast and has won many medals in special events for people with disabilities, including running, gymnastics and swimming.

Leighton's walking has also improved thanks to the love and guidance provided by the family.

Mrs Vincent said: "Fostering is what we do and we both thoroughly enjoy it. We go on holidays together and both boys are avid members of the Hereford and Worcester Camping and Caravan Club - they truly are part of our family. "

Jon, a former pupil of Blakebrook School, is now involved with Beacon Employment, which has training centres in both Kidderminster and Stourport.

He has taken up work placements with MHS Coaches and B & Q among other organisations within the Wyre Forest district.

Leighton, 25, also a former Blakebrook School pupil, has a severe physical disability but he, too, has progressed since he joined the Vincent family and is a keen member of the camping and caravan club.

Having accomplished so much through their own experience, the couple are now keen to see other people come forward and offer their homes and time to The Breakway Group and Dudley Shared Care Project.

Mr Vincent said: "Among the many qualities families must possess is the will to give up a lot of time and dedication to these young people.

"Anyone can offer their homes to these young people, as full training is given in a variety of areas, including health and safety, risk assessment and first aid.

"The important thing is to offer stability and give them opportunities that they might not have previously had."