A 17-year-old girl who wants to look after her two little sisters to avoid them being placed for adoption is said to be considering an appeal after losing a family court fight.

The teenager told a family court judge that she was "completely committed" to the girls, who are four and nearly two, and could meet their care needs.

Family members gave their backing and said they would provide support.

But Judge Martin Dancey ruled against the teenager after social workers and a psychologist said she would not be able to meet the girls' "emotional needs".

The judge said there was "lots of love and affection" for the girls. However, that is "not all it takes", he added.

The girls are instead due to be placed for adoption.

Information about the case was recently outlined by the judge in a written ruling following a family court hearing in Bournemouth.

The judge did not identify the family involved.

An organisation which offers support to people embroiled in family court litigation says it is working with the teenager and her family.

"They have been in touch," said a spokeswoman for Justice for Families.

"We are discussing the case with them and working towards an appeal."