Children from Chernobyl in Ukraine visited South Ayrshire recently as part of an annual trip arranged by the Ayrshire Link of the Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline.

They popped in to County Buildings and were shown round by South Ayrshire Provost, Helen Moonie. 

The group, which was made up of girls aged between nine and 11 received goody bags full of essentials which returned home with them,as well as donated items such as clothes.

Each year, children from Ukraine come to the UK for respite care from the effects of radioactive contamination. South Ayrshire is especially welcoming with local families happy to provide accommodation for the duration of their stay.

Although the Chernobyl nuclear power station accident happened back in 1986, millions of children are still at high risk from developing cancer, leukaemia or other illnesses. Visits like this are important as the children get to spend time in a cleaner environment.

South Ayrshire Provost, Helen Moonie welcomed the children to South Ayrshire: “It was lovely to welcome the group and be part of their visit as many of the children had not been away from their country before.

“Since 1992, Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline, has helped young people cope with the disaster which still affects people over thirty years later and we are proud to be part of this initiative.

“The visit is really good for the children as they get time away from potentially harmful contamination.

“I would like to thank everyone involved and I wish the children all the best for the future and I hope they enjoyed their time in South Ayrshire.”