6:07pm Monday 15th March 2010
Twelve children from Belarus have returned to their home country happy and healthier, after a month long stay in Pembrokeshire.
The six boys and six girls were guests of local charity the north Pembrokeshire link of the Chernobyl Children's Life Line.
They stayed with host families across Pembrokeshire and spent a month enjoying all that the county has to offer, as well as benefitting from free trips to the opticians and the dentists fresh air and a greatly improved diet.
The children's visit coincides with the harshest part of the Belarusian winter when temperatures plummet, food is scarce and the children's immune systems are less able to fight off infection.
During the month that they are in Pembrokeshire their new diet, with lots of fruit and vegetables, helps reduce the toxins in their blood and to rebalance their immune system. Doctors believe that the visit can add an extra two years to the children's life.
The children enjoyed free lunches, tea parties, trips to various schools, craft activities, fun English lessons, trips to historical monuments and Pembrokeshire attractions, St David's Day celebrations, swimming, walks in the countryside and a look around a lifeboat.
They were given two jumpers each to keep them warm for the rest of the Belarusian winter and free smoke alarms; many of the children live in wooden houses and there are many tragic accidents caused by fires.
“This has been a very successful and happy visit for the children," said chairman of the north Pembrokeshire Link, Carole Alabaster.
"The children’s action packed itinerary is only possible through the help of many local businesses, professionals, individuals and organisations. The total cost of the visit including all the air fares, is only possible with your continued generosity.”
She went on to say that the children arrived safely home yesterday (Sunday) evening: "They all send a big thank you”.
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