SHOUTS OF laughter and delight filled the air at a popular Diggle play centre as a group of children visiting from Ukraine frolicked around on the trampolines and slides…
The visit to Bouncers Play Centre was a part of a fun-filled trip for the youngsters, aged eight to ten years old, as they visited the United Kingdom for a month away from Chernobyl contaminated regions.
Accompanied by their teacher Svetlana Balabas, the childr
en were brought over for rest and recuperation thanks to Chernobyl Children Life Line – Oldham Link and stayed with host families across the borough.
Their fun session at Bouncers was provided for free by owner PaulAndrew-Willis and his daughter Katie, who have also worked with the charity in the past.
The play centre offers huge trampolines, bouncy slides, gymnastic play equipment, little tykes play corner, swings, trapeze bars, climbing walls and much more.
Other fun trips arrange for the nine youngsters include visiting Belle Vue, the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service in Oldham and spending four days in the fresh air exploring Wales.
Chernobyl Children Life Line – Oldham Link, headed by regional co-ordinator Teresa Novotny, has welcomed around 400 children to the borough since 1993.
Teresa’s son Franz, who drives the visiting children around, explained: “At this age they are very susceptible so bringing them over here for a while helps build up their immune systems.
“This four-week visit could help add a few years onto their lives.”
Ms Balabas added: “It is so exciting for them to come over and go on the trips. For many it is their first time on a plane or going abroad.”
For more information about Chernobyl Children Life Line visit their website www.ccll.org.uk/ho or Oldham Link Facebook page: www.facebook.com/chernobyloldham
Find out more about Bouncers Play Centre on their website: www.bouncersplay.co.uk
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