Would-be adopters from Bradford are being encouraged to consider youngsters from neighbouring authorities in need of a home.

Kirklees Council has launched an urgent appeal to find “forever families” for the 90 children in its care who are waiting to be adopted.

Across the area, the number of youngsters awaiting adoption has increased almost three-fold, from 33 in 2009 to around 90 in 2012.

The authority’s adoption team has so far placed 60 children with adoptive families locally and across the country over the last two years, but says more are urgently needed from Kirklees and beyond.

Councillor Cath Harris, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “With more children than ever going into care, the need for adoptive parents has never been more critical, which is why we are appealing to people to come forward.”

The campaign, which runs until March 31, is being supported by press adverts and an outdoor and digital advertising campaign.

For more information call 0800 0283001, or visit kirklees.gov.uk/adopting.