Children who come to North Cornwall for a health-restoring holiday are being hit by the British recession.

As a result of several redundancies the North Cornwall Link of the Chernobyl Children Life Line charity has fewer hosts to accommodate the youngsters this summer, and they are actively looking to recruit new offers of help.

The group of 10-11 years old from Belarus are due to arrive on Wednesday, July 22 for a month, staying in pairs for a fortnight with two different unpaid hosts.

There is an organised programme of outings and activities and hosts do not have to have children of their own.

"Some of the best hosts are older people who have the time to commit to the children," said Link Chair Brian Morgan. "But sadly, a number of our younger hosts have been made redundant and have had to withdraw. We would hate to disappoint a child who has already been invited, because we couldn't find a home for them."

The charity brings children from Belarus and the Ukraine, suffering from the after effects of the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster. They come to build up their weakened immune systems by breathing clean air and eating uncontaminated food.

Accommodation is required from Wednesday, July 22 to August 5 or from Wednesday, August 5 to August 19. If you think you can help please call Brian on 01566 781278.