Local visit was a boost to Chernobyl children

Published: 10:54 AM July 26, 2007 Updated: 11:54 PM February 22, 2021

I WOULD like, through your letters, to say thank you from the East Cambridgeshire branch of the Chernobyl Children Life Line charity to the many local businesses, residents and host families who made the stay of 10 Belarusian girls here so successful. T

I WOULD like, through your letters, to say 'thank you' from the East Cambridgeshire branch of the Chernobyl Children Life Line charity to the many local businesses, residents and host families who made the stay of 10 Belarusian girls here so successful.

The children, all aged 10 and 11 and from the area of Belarus affected by the Chernobyl nuclear power plant explosion, stayed with host families in and around Ely, Mildenhall and Newmarket from June 17 until July 15. During this time, they went to Scribbles and 10-pin bowling in Newmarket, visited Ely Cathedral and museum, had days out at Willers Mill wildlife park and Legoland and were given eye and dental checks. They were provided with lunches, a cream tea, fresh fruit, clothing, shoes and other gifts.

This month-long stay in our clean environment helps boost the children's immune system, and the charity, which is run entirely by volunteers, could not arrange such trips for these children, all of whom are chosen because they are suffering in one way or another from the after-effects of the nuclear fall out, without the generosity of all these people and businesses.

This was the second group of children the charity has brought to the East Cambridgeshire region this year, and as with the first, younger group, the children obviously had a great time here and went home looking healthier than when they arrived. They too were very appreciative of the care and attention given to them while they were here, and many keep in touch with their host families when they return. With continued support we hope to bring another group of children over next February.