Eleven children from towns in Belarus affected by radiation from the Chernobyl disaster visited a Redruth opticians.

The youngsters received free sight tests and glasses as well as a comprehensive health check as part of their visit to the UK.

Their trip was organised by charity Chernobyl Childrens Life Line to give children the chance to briefly escape the radiation that still affects their homes 33 years after the nuclear meltdown.

Joan Packard, South West Area Mentor and project manager of Chernobyl Childrens Life Line, said: "Although the children really enjoy the adventure of being in a different country the main purpose of the visit is to improve their health. Just a month in the UK improves their immune system so much that it takes two years to return to the previous levels."

Lucy Eva, store director of Specsavers in Redruth, says: "We’re delighted welcome these young people to Redruth and to have the opportunity to make a difference to their lives. Regular eye checks are an important part of a healthcare routine and access to eyecare is not available for the children in their home town.

"The radiation they’re subjected to increases the chances of contracting illnesses such as cataracts which would go undetected without an eye examination."

The visit occurred a part of the children’s month-long trip to the area and any treatment done by Specsavers was free of charge.