Shaws chip in for Chernobyl children
When Shaws Coaches heard that the Friends of
Chernobyl’s Children charity needed a
trip to the countryside, it was not a problem.
 |
Cecilia Hammond says goodbye to the children
before they
head back to Belarus on Shaws’ coach
|
The children come from poor areas of Belarus so contaminated
with radiation that they are at risk of disease, including cancer. Every year,
the local branch of FOCC raise enough money to fly a group of children to the
UK, where host families give them a four-week break.
When it comes to days out, Shaws are the experts and didn’t
hesitate to lay on a free trip for the children to Fineshade Wood: “We've
always admired the work FOCC do in giving the children of Chernobyl the
opportunity of having a holiday, and it's a privilege to make a small
contribution to the wonderful work they do,” said Jane Duffelen, a director at
Maxey-based Shaws with her brothers Chris and Richard Shaw.
FOCC co-ordinator Cecilia Hammond said the break from the
children’s often grinding routine at home is vital to their health, and helps
them develop resistance to the cancers and other illnesses caused by exposure
to radiation.
“Some of these children are orphaned or have been in foster
care, and others work hard when they are at home, so this break is a real
respite. They have a wonderful time.
“We’re very grateful to Shaws. The children also have a lot
of luggage when they go home, so a coach is the only way to travel to the
airport,” she added.
Donations to Friends of Chernobyl’s Children will go towards
next year’s trip. Call Cecilia Hammond on 07779 264591 for details.
