FOR most youngsters a visit to the dentist could never be described as a holiday but that's just what a group of children from Chernobyl have come to the Fylde for.

The 14-strong group are staying with host families in Thornton and Cleveleys and during their month-long visit have been getting free dental, optical and medical treatment - something they have little access to at home.

Arranged by the Fylde's branch of the Friends of Chernobyl's Children, the idea is to bring the same group of children over here every year to get vital medical treatment, fresh air and fresh food.

Co-ordinator Lorraine Egan explained: "Many have never been to a dentist before because there is no anaesthetic in Russia. The doctors, dentists and opticians have been brilliant and Hills Pharmacy has given each child a year's supply of vitamins."

Thankfully the youngsters, aged between seven and ten, have also had plenty of chances to enjoy themselves.

Their daily programme has ranged from days out at Blackpool Tower and the Sandcastle to swimming at Poulton pool and a spell with the fire brigade where they got to turn the hoses on firemen.

"The children are a lively bunch and love physical things so these were all ideal for them," said Lorraine. "Unfortunately they have no sense of danger so we are always chasing after them.

"They were all pale when they came here but are already looking a lot better and have bright rosy cheeks - and they can't get enough fruit.

"It will be quite sad when they go home on September 26 but we have collected lots of clothes and food for them to take back with them." Language hasn't been too much of a problem, either, as Lorraine explained: "They can make themselves understood when they want something and have learned yes and no, please and thankyou while we have learned the Russian for these. It's been a learning process for all of us."

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