TEENAGERS have been helping to make a difference at the Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline store in Old Town.

Sophie Young, Jessica Parsley, Samantha Reeves and Teri Farthing have been helping at the store as part of their Duke of Edinburgh award.

The charity shop helps children who still suffer the effects of the 1986 nuclear disaster.

Lynette Corengia, chairman of the Old Town Link of the Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline, said: “It is part of their community service for their Duke of Edinburgh award. They have been doing a bit of everything in the shop. They have been sorting clothes, ironing, hanging and pricing. They have been a real asset to us.”

Some of the children’s parents will be hosting children from Chernobyl when they come over this summer.

One three-week visit to the UK, where the children get fresh air and uncontaminated food and water, can extend a child’s life by up to two years, studies show.

“Other charity shops the girls tried wouldn’t take them. Having them here has been really beneficial to us,” said Lynette.

“They have been very good with the customers and really polite.”

Jess and Sophie finished three months of work at the shop last week.

For more information about the Old Town Link of the Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline, call Lynette on 01793 531597.