CHILDREN still suffering the effects of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster may not get vital respite care because a charity has not been able to find enough host families.

Gravesend-based Concern for Chernobyl Children, has raised enough money to fly 30 children from Belarus to north Kent this summer.

But, so far, only 12 families have volunteered to act as hosts, during their visit from July 27 to August 20.

The lack of host families means the number of children in this year's programme may have to be cut to just 20.

Spokesman Mary Jones said: "Normally the amount of children we fly over depends on our finances but this year it's about finding host families."

Just one per cent of land in Belarus is free from contamination following the nuclear explosion in Chernobyl 17 years ago.

The charity has brought children to stay in Gravesend, Dartford and Bexley for the past 10 years and the youngsters, who are all learning English, benefit by gaining weight while away from the

radiation.

The charity organises activities for them throughout their stay.

For further information about the scheme or to volunteer as a host, call 01634 251967.

April 29, 2003 09:30