HOST families in Poole are needed to care for child victims of the Chernobyl disaster who are still suffering 21 years on.

The Poole Link of the Chernobyl Children Life Line is bringing 10 children, aged eight to 11, from Belarus to the town this summer, and desperately needs volunteers who can accommodate them on their month long stay.

Nuclear fall-out from the explosion at Chernobyl nuclear plant on April 26 1986, has seen the region hit by massive increase in cancers, leukaemia, headaches and thyroid disorders.

But just a month away from contamination can improve the health and life expectancy of a child from the region.

Brian Saunders, CCLL Poole Link chairman, said: "This is not only a necessity to improve these children's quality of life, but offers the children a once in a lifetime experience that they will never forget and that you probably won't either."

He added the charity would pay the £400 needed to bring each child to the country and organise activities for them, as well as providing language support and advice for host families.

National charity Chernobyl Children Life Line has brought more than 30,000 children to Britain for month-long holidays over the last 15 years.

The Poole link was set up just eight months ago and is also looking for supporters who can help fundraise or help out with activities and day trips for the 10 Russian children during their stay.

To offer help or for more information contact Brian or Ann Saunders on 01202 460079 or email brianinmoscow@hotmail.com