AN APPEAL has been launched to find host families who could help children from Chernobyl.

Every year children from Belarus, who are still living with the effects of the nuclear disaster 27 years ago, come to Dorset to enjoy a four-week holiday.

The break from the radioactive atmosphere of Chernobyl is credited with helping youngsters extend their life expectancy.

But more host families are needed to ensure this summer’s planned visits go ahead.

Debbie Williams, of West Parley, is chair of the Silver Birch link of the Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline. They raise around £10,000 each year to bring 10 new children to the UK for a month of clean air, fresh food and fun.

“It is proven all this helps to increase their life span by two years,” she said. “People are not aware of the lasting effects that Belarus is still suffering with today.

“There is no age limit. We welcome families, retired and single people who are willing to take in a child. We need hosts coming forward as soon as possible because children have to be allocated and checks have to be done.”

Their visits will take place between June 2 and June 30 and anyone interested in hosting a child should contact Debbie on 01202 331980 or email deb09silverbirch@gogglemail.com And the Wessex Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline, a different branch of the same charity, is looking for host families who could accommodate a child between July 5 and August 2.

Chair John Martindale said: “Host families can expect a lot of fun and feeling that they are doing a worthwhile thing. These children are 10 or 11, they come over because four weeks in a clean environment can boost their life expectancy.

“The most heartening thing is the amount of support we get from the local community, who are always more than happy to lay on fun activities for these children.”

To contact John telephone 01202 690110. More information is available at www.ccllwessex.org.uk