GIDLEIGH Park's celebrity chef Michael Caines MBE is among a group of celebrities who have shared happy childhood memories to highlight the fact that many children awaiting adoption do not have such memories.

The short film put together by adoption agency Families for Children sends a message that some children do not have happy childhood memories and highlights the need for more adopters to come forward for the some 6,000 children currently in care as part of National Adoption Week.

Appropriately enough for a renowned chef, Mr Caines recalls memories of learning to cook in his family home with his mother. He is joined in the video by actress Caroline Quentin, Radio Devon presenter Judi Spiers, author David Lawrence Jones and TV presenter Mark Tyler.

Everyone in the video is a patron of the adoption agency and Mr Caines himself was adopted by his parents.

Ally Colton, fundraiser, said: 'We are thrilled to have the help of our patrons in the making of this film.

'They are always happy to join in with whatever event or promotion we have organised to spread the word about adoption — from appearing in films, providing voice-overs, dressing up in fancy dress, making Christmas puddings, having their head shaved or selling raffle tickets. We really appreciate all the support they give us.'

Caroline Quentin said: 'As patron of the charity I am delighted to have helped Families for Children with their Happy Childhood Memories film. As we get near to Christmas please remember that Christmas is a time for families. This year please think about all those children in care who are still waiting for their forever family through adoption.'

For more details about adoption call 01364 645480 or visit http://www.familiesforchildren.org.uk">www.familiesforchildren.org.uk