The nuclear disaster in Chernobyl was 30 years ago but the effects are still being felt today.

The power plant explosion and fire on April 30, 1986, released large quantities of radioactive particles into the atmosphere and spread over western USSR, as it was then, and into Europe.

Much of the land is still contaminated and long-term effects such as cancers and fertility problems are still being investigated.

With this in mind, every year youngsters are invited to stay with host families in the UK to enjoy fun activities as well as much-needed health checks.

One charity which welcomes up to 12 children annually is Friends of Chernobyl’s Children (Medway). It relies entirely on volunteers and donations and was delighted to receive £1,000 from the Gravesend Lions.

Co-ordinator Linda Baldwin, 63, said: “It was a terrific donation, absolutely amazing, and will go towards the cost of the hire of a mini-bus and fuel for all the trips and days out we take them on.”

The youngsters, who live in Belarus, are invited over every June for four weeks. The same children come for five years running, usually from the age of seven. Most of their time is spent enjoying themselves, but important health checks are also carried out.

A trip to John Lewis, Bluewater, saw them having their feet measured and being kitted out with new shoes, before being thrown a party, all courtesy of the store.

“The disaster may have been 30 years ago but unfortunately things aren’t getting better,” said Linda. “People are still eating and drinking contaminated food and water which is causing lots of cancers.”

Based in Cliffe, FOCC(Medway) is run by Linda and her husband Tony, with vital support from volunteers. “Donations such as the one from Gravesend Lions allows us to give the children a brilliant time, “ added Linda.

For information call 01634 220037, email foccmedway15@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/foccmedway