FOUR students from Mexico and one from Brazil are due to arrive in England in the next few days.

But International exchange programme In-Step is struggling to find them welcoming homes for the duration of the academic year.

Organisers, who blame the delays on the Iraqi war and SARS crisis, are now appealing for volunteer families in East Lancashire to come forward.

The exchange students are all keen to live in England, in an English home, and to attend local schools to learn more about our culture and language.

But days before their trip, they have yet to know where they are going.

In-Step is keen to find loving families who would like to learn more about other cultures and languages themselves whilst offering a loving environment to young people.

A grant is available for host families to help towards the cost of an additional person at home.

Malcolm Hordern, based with the organisation in Preston, said: "The experience of hosting these foreign students is impossible to put into words.

"We are appealing to anyone who thinks they can provide the kind of home they would wish for their children on a similar exchange.

"It is very rewarding to do a little bit to help foster international relations, especially when it is by providing a loving home."

For more information about the programme contact Malcolm or Sue on 01772 626343 or email in-step@england.co.uk