SIR,
The 25th anniversary of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster falls on 26th April and it is shocking to realise that people are still suffering, and will indeed continue to do so, from the effects of the disaster.
The inhabitants of Belarus were among those most greatly affected and this impoverished country endures many difficulties with a very low standard of living.
Many of your readers will be aware of the work that Friends of Chernobyl's Children has done over the last 11 years in bringing children from Belarus to Monmouthshire for recuperative visits.
I, as local co-ordinator, would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped in some way – the hosts, the helpers, the medical support, the businesses who have entertained them, the schools who have fundraised to make the project possible, right down to everyone who has put some money in our tins in a street collection.
The support of local people is vital in enabling us to help the children of Belarus and the attitude of local people is very heartwarming.
We have 10 children coming to the area later this year and I am sure they will be given a warm welcome yet again.
Jane Hines
(Friends of Chernobyl's Children)