CHILDREN returned to the aftermath of the world s worst nuclear disaster when they said goodbye to Middlewich.

A group of 17 Belarussian children suffering the devastating after-effects of the 1986 Chernobyl power station explosion have been staying in Middlewich, courtesy of the charity Peak Relief, which is based in the town.

About 800,000 children are at risk of contracting cancer or leukaemia in the next 15-20 years as a result of the disaster and many hundreds have benefited from holidays in Britain.

Simply by breathing fresh air and eating healthy food, the youngsters health can quickly improve and regular short breaks in a clean environment can even improve their life expectancy.

Dennis Connolly, landlord of the Turnpike pub, hosted a farewell party for the young visitors. He said: 'It has been said that a month s holiday in the UK can add an extra two years on to their lives. And it also gives them a much-needed break from their devastated homeland.'

The children have been enjoying the hospitality of the people of Middlewich and they have been kitted out with new clothes and treated to days out.

Mr Connolly added: 'I was chuffed to bits to be asked to host the farewell party for these youngsters. Britain and has been adopted by the rest of Europe for the first time this year.'