THE number of children adopted in Somerset has almost doubled in the past year.

Figures released by the Department for Education show 50 children in the county have been adopted over the past 12 months, compared to 30 in the previous year.

Across the South-West, the number has risen from 320 to 440.

Secretary of State for Education Nicky Morgan said: “More of our most vulnerable of children in the South-West are finding the loving and permanent homes they so desperately need.”