A GROUP of athletes have done their bit to help children suffering the legacy of a nuclear disaster thirty years ago by raising more than £6,000.

The team of five from Royal Wootton Bassett Hounds Running Club, who pounded their way round London Marathon to boost the funds of Chernobyl Children in Need, have been thanked by the education minister in Belarus for their efforts.

Club chairman Rob Davies said they were approached last October by the chairman of the charity, Bob Barrett, who is from Old Town, and asked if any members wanted to run the 2017 race for them.

“Five athletes came forward to offer their services. While rigorously training over the winter months, the team additionally set about raising funds for the CCIN.”

They also set up a crowdfunding page and organised different events to bring in as much money as they could.

He said: “They canvassed support from their fellow hounds and personal friends and organised an Horse Race evening at the Royal Wootton Bassett Sports Association club house.

Club member Howard Palin offered to raise more by servicing bikes and donating the money to the cause.

“In total, Howard serviced 29 bikes which created £650 for the charity, they ranged from a straight forward service to some major overhauls. In total, £6,607.98 was raised for CCIN,” added Rob.

The authorities in Belarus were so grateful they sent certificates of appreciation to Howard and his fellow fundraisers Dave Worthy, Sonia Bird Tribley, Chris Bunce, Rob Clark and Lynsey Fairclough.

Set up 13 years after the Chernobyl nuclear power station disaster of 1986, the charity raises money to help children who are suffering three decades later.

While many residents, firefighters, soldier and scientists died along with plant workers when the reactor overheated and exploded, the effect on health in the region is still being felt. One is called Chernobyl heart and it causes the deaths of many youngsters although it can be treated in the West.

Cancers linked to the disaster are also known for being virulent and difficult to treat and the charity, which supports nearly 400 children, says the number of death caused by its direct or indirect effects are above average.

The charity offers humanitarian aid, respite holidays, education and building projects that improve the lives of children living in the region.

Visit ccin.co.uk for more information.