The Chernobyl children and their trip organisers enjoying their visit to the Water Place

CHILDREN from Chernobyl had a splashing time at the Water Place in Bolton as part of their special month-long trip.

The children, aged between 10 and 13, arrived in Bolton on Monday morning and, despite their long journey, they where all in high spirits.

Their visit has been organised by the Bury Link Scheme and is the first of its kind in the area.

All the children are staying with families in the Bolton area and a special cake was made to celebrate their arrival.

Jean Dickenson of Harwood, who helped to organise their trip, said: "The children were great. They were very excited and once they met the English children they were chattering away and exchanging gifts.

"For these children this trip will be the experience of a lifetime. It has even been said that the life of children who take part in this kind of visit is extended by up to two years just because of the fresh air.

"We want their stay with us to be fun as well as relaxing and thought that the Water Place would be a good place to start."

During their stay the children will get to see a few more of Bolton's attractions including a day out at Bolton Show and a visit to the East Lancs Steam Railway in Bury.

Jean added: "Everyone has been very kind, through donations and the generosity of the people on Bolton Market we have been able to buy a few items of clothing for each child."

The Bury Link group would greatly appreciate any donations and are also looking for small gifts like puzzle books and pens for the children to take home with them. Anyone who would like to help should contact Jean Dickenson on 01204 395590.