THE Children of Chernobyl visited Royston Fire Station on Monday – a trip that was designed to help save their lives. Firefighters entertained the 17 youngsters with fun games and educated them on the dangers of fire through a series of demonstrations.

THE Children of Chernobyl visited Royston Fire Station on Monday - a trip that was designed to help save their lives.

Firefighters entertained the 17 youngsters with fun games and educated them on the dangers of fire through a series of demonstrations.

Station officer Rad Bristow said: "We were delighted to have the children visiting the station.

"We have been told that many people die as a result of fires in their home country Belarus.

"We know that smoke alarms save lives so that is why we have given them to the children to take home."

Community safety task force officers Pete Chapman and Stella James led the demonstrations, and with the help of interpreter Olga Sharapkina captivated the children with one particular eye-catching display.

Mr Chapman said: "It doesn't matter where the children are from in the world - fire safety is vitally important.

"They have had a tough time, so it was great to see them enjoying themselves. To be honest everyone involved had a good day and the children's enthusiasm certainly rubbed off on our officers - it was infectious."

The youngsters who are staying with host families from in and around Melbourn were also shown around a fire engine and sprayed the hoses at targets - which included a soaked Mr Chapman.

Anne Bobeckyj, who is hosting eight-year-old Diana said: "The children really enjoyed themselves and I'm sure they have learned a lot about fire safety which is important."

Interpreter Olga Sharapkina said: "The children have told me that they have had a lot of fun today particularly on the fire engine and using the hoses."

The children's second week has been another full of activities.

As well as the visit to the fire station, they also visited Bassingbourn Snowsports Centre on Tuesday for more excitement.