It's grim up north - social workers put kids in care rather than send them to Yorkshire

A woman living in Yorkshire who wanted to adopt her niece and nephew was told by social workers that the children would struggle to 'adapt' to the 'area and culture' of the north.

The children spent months in foster care in Hampshire after the bizarre decision was made.

The woman - who herself moved from Hampshire to Yorkshire - began a nine-month legal battle with Hampshire Social Services to overturn their decision.

She has now won custody of the two children.

Initially she was told the youngsters 'couldn't adapt to a change in area and culture' and could become isolated because of their 'southern accents.'

The outraged auntie said the children 'had a tough time at home' and that she wanted to show them 'a real family life'.

Her solicitor, Huddersfield-based Nigel Priestley said: 'It was one of the most bizarre social services decisions I have come across. The aunt has provided a great home and they will adapt as children do.'

What do you think? Maddest social services decision ever, or can you see that the children could have had problems adjusting?