We are working with organisations across the Bay to give something back to families with cared for children. Twenty free family tickets have been won by foster families in Torbay to enjoy a ride on the English Riviera Wheel.

In a competition that was initiated by Cllr Steve Darling, all foster carers were contacted with details of the raffle, with over 40 families applying to enter. All families with cared for children will also be offered a 20% discount on a family pass, which will be available to use until the end of September. They’ll be able to enjoy a trip on the iconic wheel with gondolas that transport people 100 feet above Princess Gardens, offering stunning 360-degree views across the harbour and the bay beyond.

Several other local attractions have also offered free visits to foster carers and their families in the past including Torre Abbey, Princess Theatre, Torquay United, Paignton Zoo and the Dartmouth Steam Railway Train of Lights.

Cllr Steve Darling, Leader of the Council said: “I would like to thank Mellors Group for this generous offer for families with cared for children. I do hope they enjoy the experience over the summer holidays and that other attractions may offer similar prizes and offers to bring a little joy into the lives of these children and their fostering families.”

Leigh Harris of Mellors Group said: “We are delighted to announce that we are gifting 20 free family tickets to experience The English Rivera Wheel to fostering families. In addition to our complimentary tickets, we have made the decision to honour a 20% discount for all fostering families for the duration of our 2021 season in Torquay.

“We are so pleased to see so many families cherishing special moments together again and what better way than soaring high over the beautiful harbour in the heart of the English Riviera at Torquay.”

There are currently 306 cared for children in Torbay, and of these, 197 are living with foster carers. Children are fostered when they can’t live at home with their birth families. It's usually a short-term arrangement before a child returns home, moves to relatives or is adopted, but some children remain in long-term foster care until they are 18.

It is hoped that more attractions and local businesses might be able to offer prizes and discounts for local foster families. Torre Abbey has once again pledged to run two free days for foster families over the school summer holidays.

To find out more about fostering and to join Torbay’s fostering family, visit: www.torbay.gov.uk/children-and-families/fostering

If you run an attraction and would like to make an offer to support our foster families, please contact communications@torbay.gov.uk