Lynne Appleby, of Lyell Street, Scarborough, couldn't hide her emotions when she saw three of her former foster children.

Lynne's daughter Karen McPherson and adopted son Wayne organised the party which was held at the Anglers social club, in Friars Way.

The foster children who attended were Amanda Williamson, from Selby, Christopher Reed, from York, and Claire Baker, from Hull.

Mrs Appleby said: "I was so shocked when I saw them. It was a lovely surprise and there were a lot of tears.

"I do like to keep in touch with them but I haven't seen some for a while so it was just fantastic.

"It was nice for them as well as they were piecing together their history with each other. It was a lovely night.

"I really want to thank them for coming. It meant so much to me."

Mrs Appleby and her husband Francis, 62, fostered 36 children between 1981 and 1989 at their Lyell Street home.

The youngsters, aged between a week and nine years old, stayed with the couple for up to three years.

Mrs Appleby added: "I loved doing what we did. It was heartbreaking at times, but knowing that the children were going to good homes where they would be looked after was incredible. I would not change a thing."

Her daughter said: "I organised the party with my brother Wayne and my dad. We just thought it would be an amazing surprise for mum and it was. Amanda, Christopher and Claire were the perfect surprise guests for the party.

"She has had a fantastic life and has helped and looked after so many children.

"It was an emotional night.

"When she saw them she was just so shocked. There were tears, but definitely happy ones.

"It was a very special occasion."