A CHARITY is hoping people will follow the footsteps of former Pontypool rugby coach Steve Jones by becoming a foster carer.

Steve Jones, who died in 2007 aged 55, fostered countless children over the years with his wife, Liz.

The couple already had a family but chose to foster more children at their home in Pontypool.

Charity Action For Children, based at Beechwood House in Newport, will be launching an initiative to increase the number of foster carers in Wales on Thursday and hopes many more families will follow the rugby legend’s example.

Mr Jones’ son, Leighton, said: “He had just as much passion for fostering the kids as he did for rugby.

“At times it was heartbreaking to see where they came from but heart-warming to see what development the kids went through and changed to become better people.

“Words cannot describe what kind of feeling it gives you because it is so rewarding to see them developing into young adults.”

Mr Jones has formed friendships with many of the children and remains in contact with many of them.

For more information about being a foster carer, see actionforchildren.org.uk/fos tering or call the charity on 01633 270422.