A COUPLE who have fostered nearly 300 children described their delight at meeting Prince Charles as they were appointed MBEs.

Edna and Edward Pratt, of Mountdale Gardens, Leigh, began fostering 36 years ago.

They were joined by eight of their children and grandchildren as they met Princes Charles at the ceremony at Bucklingham Palace.

Mrs Pratt, 62, said: “It was amazing. It was lovely to go through the gates and the arch where the Royal Family go.

“It was so beautifully decorated because it’s Christmas.

“It was an absolute privilege to meet Prince Charles. He said he was in awe of us and we were amazing people. He said this is just a small thank you and a token of gratitude for all the work we do.

“I know he says it to hundreds of people, but the way he said it was like he had never said it to anyone else before.”

The couple were appointed MBEs for services to children and families.

Mr and Mrs Pratt have two children of their own, Tony and Kirsten, and have adopted two more and have seven grandchildren.

But they have fostered nearly 300 children since the late Seventies, including drug-addicted babies.

Mrs Pratt said: “To see a sixweek- old baby in agony with stomach cramps from the drug addiction is awful.”

Another child who came into Mr and Mrs Pratts’ care was full of anger at first, but today he is a part of the family, and joined his parents at Buckingham Palace to watch them receive their honour.

The couple also paid tribute to their children, Tony and Kirsten, for “sharing” their parents.

Mrs Pratt said: “They gave up their mum and dad to share us with other children.

“It’s what they have always known.

“When my son was four he asked when it was his turn to go.

He was so used to all the children coming and going, so I had to explain to him he wasn’t going anywhere.”

Mr and Mrs Pratt said there is still a need for foster carers.

Mrs Pratt said: “Some children come here for a few hours, but others for life.

“Three of them were with us at Buckingham Palace and I was so proud of them.

“The most rewarding thing is we have been able to give children something to show them there is a nice start to life with a mum and a dad.

“We really need more foster carers to come forward. We are crying out for them.”