This year our branch hosted a delightful group of four boys and eight girls, including a brother and sister from the same family.
Our youngest, Vlad, was twelve and the oldest, Olga, almost fifteen. They all live in small towns and villages in contaminated areas within the Gomel and Mogilev regions of Belarus.
They soon overcame their initial shyness and it was very obvious that they were enjoying all the activities we had arranged.
Some of the highlights were horse riding, ice-skating and swimming, and of course the Gloucester Fair and a day at a theme park.
It was good to see the children growing in confidence and looking healthier as the weeks passed by. As always we are so grateful to everyone who has helped this year, particularly the individuals and organisations who have given us free or subsidised entry to attractions and activities.
All too soon the four weeks were over, and it was time for the children to return home, taking back a few small gifts, a photo album and memories of a wonderful holiday. But most of all we're glad to have given them a better chance of maintaining their health for years to come.