BELARUS NEWS AND ANALYSIS

DATE:

18/06/2008

Police treat for children of Belarus

Youngsters from Chernobyl-hit areas enjoy fun and games

By Mark Dowie

POLICE officers in Angus turned entertainers yesterday when they hosted a visit from a group of Belarusian children.

The 12 youngsters were welcomed at Eastern Division HQ at Forfar for a day of fun and games.

Activities included party games, having their faces painted and a performance by a children's entertainer.

The party was brought to Angus by charity Chernobyl Children Life Line which brings groups to the UK annually.

Many of the children live in areas still badly affected by fallout from the nuclear disaster in 1986, when a reactor exploded at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine.

Their own homes are located in rural areas that suffer from the most profound deprivation and poverty as a result of the disaster as well as a poor economy.

"We are delighted to welcome the children here again this year," said Tayside Police's Heather Clark, who organised this year's visit to the Forfar station.

"Their own families struggle at the very margins of existence, so it is a privilege for us to put a smile on the children's faces and give them a day to remember.

''We have received generous gifts and donations from the Eighteen and Under Charity, Woolworths and many others. Thanks to their generosity, the kids will take happy memories and mementos of their time here away with them."

Source:

http://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/Article.aspx/695681?UserKey=0

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