CHERNOBYL Children’s Life Line, West Wiltshire Link, has welcomed a group of children from Ukraine to enjoy a respite holiday in Westbury and Wiltshire.
The charity supports the children of Belarus and Ukraine, whose lives continue to be affected by the aftermath of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in 1986.
Steve Lloyd, chair of the West Wiltshire Link reports, “This year’s group of children from Ukraine arrived on 14th July and four girls, four boys and Olga the group leader have joined us here in west Wilts. Aged between 12 and 13 years, this is the age the children are at the highest risk of contracting illnesses such as thyroid cancer.
“They are staying with our wonderful host families around the Westbury, Warminster, Frome and Trowbridge areas, who are giving their time to look after these unfortunate children whose lives are affected by the terrible nuclear accident 26 years ago.
“There are many activities laid on throughout their month stay in Wiltshire. All have been kindly donated, including a trip to Weymouth courtesy of First Great Western (Westbury), horse riding at Warminster Saddle Club, sailing with Westbury Sailing Association, throwing pots at White Horse Pottery, making pizzas at Domino’s in Trowbridge, swimming at Westbury and Clarendon pools and Center Parcs, picnics and barbecues at Brokerswood Country Park, ten pin bowling at Christie Miller, Barbara McLellan canal boat trip in Bradford on Avon, Splodge’s soft play and arts and crafts, picnic and games at Lye Field, Seend, and Crealy Adventure Park in Devon. Not forgetting the annual visit to Westbury Fire Station who are always so pleased to help us.
“Many thanks to the Red Admiral pub who have kindly donated tea for the children. The very important and much-needed trips to the Westbury Dental Practice and Haine & Smith opticians have already taken place, with the majority of the group needing dental work and one requiring a pair of glasses. The whole group is very enthusiastic and enjoying their respite holiday here in west Wilts.
“A special thanks to all the donations and gifts the children have received.
“We wish to convey our sincere gratitude to everyone who has helped make this visit possible; without your help and kindness, we would not be able to give these children the holiday of a lifetime they so deserve. Many thanks also to Wiltshire College who are keeping transport costs down with the use of their minibus.
“If you wish to know more about what we do and why, please feel free to contact us on 01373 822418 or 01373 826111.”
