Tynie give shirt off back to charity

Published on Saturday 4 July 2009 11:20

CHILDREN from some of the areas worst affected by the Chernobyl disaster are benefiting from the ongoing generosity of charity organisations and sports clubs in the Capital.

Youngsters from Belarus and Ukraine, whose homes were badly hit by the effects of radiation emanating from the nuclear power plant explosion in 1986, live on the breadline in their home countries and continue to suffer the effects of the still-active chemicals nearby.

They had their spirits lifted recently, however, as Tynecastle Football Club handed them a set of football strips during the latest in a series of visits to Edinburgh sponsored by local charity, Chernobyl Children Lifeline.

As part of their month-long stay in the Capital, children stayed with host families and attended dental check-ups and opticians appointments among a programme of fun activities.

Norma Smith, chair of the Edinburgh link of CCL, said that many of them had come from struggling, single-parent families.

"Many host families here in Edinburgh have become smitten with the kids and have them back every year. The disaster happened in Ukraine, but much of the radioactive drift went to Belarus."

Sharleen Gillies, events co-ordinator of the project, paid tribute to the football club in rounding off an enjoyable trip for the young Eastern Europeans, saying: "The main aim is to improve the health of these children when they're here, and we also entertain them.

Tynecastle FC have been great. They have permission for collections at Tynecastle Stadium on behalf of our charity and we really appreciate their support."