TEN children from the Chernobyl area of the former Soviet Union have returned home after spending a month with Malvern families.

The children came to the UK thanks to the Chernobyl Children's Lifeline, which helps families from the area affected by the nuclear accident 20 years ago.

The charity was formed in the hope of giving youngsters from the area at least some time in a more healthy environment.

Dorothy Knights, of the Lifeline group, said the children, aged 10-11, had enjoyed themselves tremendously.

"They went to Cadbury World, the Sea Life Centre and the safari park and they had a great time," she said.

Before they left, the group's leader, Aliona Mikhailova, sent this message to the people of Malvern: "We'd like to thank you for giving us a possibility to come here and enjoy our time in such a marvellous place.

"Thank you for your kindness and generosity. Thanks for everything you have done for us."