Child carers in Bradford have been honoured for the way they have inspired and educated youngsters.

Dozens of playworkers, childminders and early years staff won praise at an awards ceremony, hosted by Bradford Council's Early Years and Childcare Service.

Around 60 people were presented with certificates for achieving qualifications in their line of work.

Councillor John Cole, Bradford's official Play Champion, said: "There have been some fantastic achievements and people need to be congratulated on the brilliant work they are doing with children and young people in our district."

Childminder Ray Gibson, who received certificates for Developing Childminding Practice and Quality Assurance Awards, said it was a rewarding and worthwhile career.

Mr Gibson, 33, a former chef, and his wife Jill look after seven children at their home in Undercliffe, Bradford, as well as their own two sons, after setting up a childminding service three years ago. They also run toddler and play groups.

Mr Gibson said: "We permanently have a house full of kids. It's a really rewarding job and it's fantastic to see the children develop every day."

Ray and Jill set up a toddler and play group after the birth of their second child, Jamie, because there was not one locally. Their children's school, Westminster Primary, suggested he should be a childminder.

He said: "It comes naturally to me, but you have to have the right temperament and inclination. It isn't a typical man's job but I would definitely recommend it to others. It's lovely to see the children's smiling faces. I am chuffed and excited to be recognised for my work."

Adam Lincoln, 41, of Heaton, Bradford, received a certificate in play work. He began working part-time on summer play schemes in Bradford parks 18 months ago and is now a full-time worker at the district's first adventure playground in Eccleshill. The scheme is attended by 60 youngsters aged between eight and 15.

"The children come and do what they want, within the bounds of health and safety," he said. "The kids design what they want to have and we help them to build it "There are dens, rope swings, tree houses, as well as a kickabout area for football and other games, and there are plans for an Army-style zip line to slide down."

Mr Lincoln said: "I wanted to work with children for years, but I didn't know in what capacity. It's wonderful to be able to build relations with children and young people and act as a positive role model. It's not just about enjoying themselves. It is also teaching them about life and values and hoping they will come out with a sense of responsibility."

Staff at Kids Club at Foxhill Primary School in Queensbury were given an award after becoming the first in the district to gain an outstanding Ofsted report.

Julie Mattocks-Cawood, senior workforce and play manager for the Council, said: "It was our first such awards ceremony and we felt it was important to recognise what these people have achieved."

e-mail: steve.wright @bradford.newsquest.co.uk