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THE children of Chernobyl dived head first into their four-week stay this week with programme organiser Nicola Dunklin saying: It s as if they had never left! The 17 Belarussian youngsters, who will be staying with their Melbourn host families for the

THE children of Chernobyl dived head first into their four-week stay this week with programme organiser Nicola Dunklin saying: "It's as if they had never left!"

The 17 Belarussian youngsters, who will be staying with their Melbourn host families for the next month, embarked on their programme of fun-packed activities and medical care on Monday.

Taking part in a number of activities, including a trip to the play scheme Cheeky Monkeys, art and craft sessions, English lessons, and trips to the park, the children ended a busy day by jumping into the McSplash swimming pool in Melbourn.

Nicola said: "It's been a really smooth start, and the children have slipped straight back into the programme. It's almost as if they had never left!"

Clare Williams of McSplash said: "It looks like they've been having a really fun week.

"They had a good time at the pool last year and it's great to have them back again. They are a lovely group of children."

As well as all the fun and games, the children have been visiting dentists in Buntingford.

They also paid a visit to Royston Tesco, where they were given multi vitamins and clothing.

Nicola said: "There's a lot more coming up and it's going to be an exciting few weeks. It's been fabulous to see them all again and one thing is for sure - they're not so shy this time around!