Children who have been affected by the nuclear disaster at Chernobyl have been holidaying in Orkney where the fresh air is claimed to help extend their life expectancy.
Over a quarter of a century has passed since the Chernobyl power plant accident, but each year thousands of children in affected areas of Belarus and Ukraine are born with birth defects and many young people go on to develop cancers.
But a charity says just a few weeks in Scotland can have a remarkable effect, with the children having the chance to eat uncontaminated food and live for at least a few weeks in a cleaner environment.
The children, all from the Stolin region of Belarus, have been brought to Orkney by the Chernobyl Children's Life Line charity.
Galine Galukha, group leader, said: "When they come back from here their parents think they are healthier and they look better so it does make a difference. They have less radioactive substances in their systems."
Aged between ten and 13, the children have split their holiday time between Nairn and Orkney, cramming in as many activities as they possibly can over the month that they are in Scotland.
Tom Heggie, of Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline, said: "The children will benefit from coming here as they will not only have memories that they will cherish for a lifetime and unique experiences, but they also benefit from fresh air and good food which helps them go home clear of any radiation."
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