A TEENAGER from Belarus has been on a diplomatic mission to Westhoughton -- and has returned home with a message of hope for her friends.

Galina Hess, aged 18, visited Westhoughton High School to tell pupils about how her country was left devastated by the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster.

The pupils have offered to support her school in Tesnovaya, where many youngsters are suffering from cancer and other illnesses.

They have already sent four computers, a fax machine, sports gear, a CD player and other goodies.

Now they have given Galina a banner that they made to symbolise their friendship.

Galina, who stayed with a local family during her visit, said: "I've had a wonderful time in Westhoughton. I'm glad the pupils are helping my friends."

Steve Greer, who helps run the Westhoughton Youth Drop-In Centre, is helping co-ordinate the fund-raising campaign.

He said: "Teachers in Belarus are looking to be twinned with schools in Bolton. We would really like to hear from any schools that might be interested."

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