A Sunderland-based adoption agency has made a special appeal to people who might be able to adopt a very special "bright star" of a little boy.
Michael, 4, has been in foster care since birth. He requires some special support - he was born with a Tessier cleft and mild scoliosis of the spine, and has global development delay - though this doesn't stop him enjoying time playing outside and watching his favourite Cocomelon TV show.
His current foster carer explained he is a "a lovely cuddly little child who knows how to pull at your heartstrings" and who has begun to enjoy playing with other children such as her own grandchildren. The appeal is being made jointly by ARC Adoption North East and Cumbria Adoption, as so far a search for a loving home for Michael has not been successful.
