A last ditch plea is going out to kind hearted Billericay residents to host a child affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster for a summer holiday.

Supporters of Chernobyl Children's Lifeline - Billericay Link, are desperately trying to beat the clock to find a family who are willing to accommodate a child affected by the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear power plant explosion for a holiday.

A total of six families in Billericay has been organised to host the children from Belarus for their visit but unfortunately one had to drop out because of personal reasons.

Now charity workers are appealing to Billericay residents to house a child for the four-week holiday beginning on Sunday, June 22, which provides a much needed break from the poverty they face in their everyday lives.

Host family liaison for the charity, Mandy Watson, said: "A group of 13 children will be visiting Billericay and unfortunately due to unforeseen circumstances one of the families has had to drop out.

"We are now desperately seeking another host family to come forward and take their place.

"These visits are a huge boost to the children of Belarus - the fresh air and uncontaminated food and water has a dramatic effect on their depleted immune systems and noticeably improves their health.

"Parents in Belarus beg for their children to have a visit to the UK and we try and give as many children as possible the opportunity to benefit from the holiday."

Visits to Colchester Zoo, Legoland and trips to the swimming pool are among the activities in store for the youngsters.

Drivers and volunteers are also needed to help out during the day trips during their visit.

Anyone who would like further information on hosting or volunteering, call the charity's chairman, David Gladstone, on 01277 653462.

Published Friday, May 2, 2003

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