Children from radiation-ravaged areas of Belarus experienced a “magical” moment when they met dolphins for the first time on a respite trip to Tayside.
Around 100 children from Belarus and Ukraine are in Scotland for a therapeutic holiday, with 12 hosted by the Tayside link of Chernobyl Children’s LifeLine.
As well as enjoying free entry to attractions such as Blair Drummond Safari Park, the Scottish Deer Centre and Drumtochty Highland Games, the children are given dental treatment with anaesthetic, which is not available in Belarus.
One child this year needed 11 fillings.
Organiser Kathleen Robbie said the highlight of the children’s visit so far has been a trip out of Arbroath Harbour with the Inchcape Marine Services boat Ultimate Predator.
A school of dolphins followed the boat for 15 minutes in touching distance the first time the children from land-locked Belarus had seen one outside of a book.
“The children were in shock they couldn’t believe their eyes,” said Kathleen. “It was magical. They were mesmerised by the whole experience us too.”
The Tayside group has been unable to have children over for two years due to a shortfall in host families.
Organisers are hopeful of having children again next year but Kathleen has asked potential hosts and support families who can step up in an emergency from Perth, Angus and Dundee to call her on 07760 177706.