AT THIS time of year most families are rushing around getting Christmas stockings filled, making out lists for Santa and planning the obligatory annual visit to relatives.

But for Blackpool couple John, 56, and Pauline Caulfield, 44, this year's festivities are a little out of focus as they get stuck into setting-up local offshoot of national charity - Chernobyl Children Life Line.

The Caulfields, of Chatsworth Avenue in the resort, launched the Blackpool 'link' branch earlier this month after being involved with a similar charity for the last two years.

Their aim is to organise a summer respite trip to the Fylde coast for 20 children from Belarus affected by fall-out from the 1986 Ukrainian tragedy.

Already the Caulfield's two children - Sarah, nine, and Ian, eight - have begun helping to raise funds for the charity by organising a cake stall at St Bernadette's Primary School this week.

But it is hoped that - if enough host families can be found - the trip would become an annual event giving the children the chance to escape the poverty and potentially lethal pollution of their country as well as experiencing a different culture.

Retired teacher, John said: "Many children from the Ukraine and nearby areas, such as Belarus, suffer from depleted immune systems and poor bone structure.

"Childhood cancer and blood disorders are rife and it has been estimated that it could take up to 400 years to clear-up the mess left by Chernobyl.

"Unfortunately people will still be living there, eating produce and meat from the land and drinking water so the diseases and conditions will continue generation after generation. By spending just one month out of that environment, breathing fresh, uncontaminated air, eating good food and drinking clean water can extend a child's life by two years.

"That is a fantastic achievement and one that, as parents of two healthy children, we couldn't bear to overlook."

The Caulfields now want Blackpool families who are able to volunteer as a full trip host or 'day host' - allowing a visiting youngster to accompany their family on a day trip - will get in touch.

They also want to hear from local businesses who would like to advertise on the new charity's website, make a direct donation or display one of their registered charity collecting boxes.

For further information contact John and Pauline at Chernobyl Children Life Line Blackpool on 353295 or email japasai@tiscali.co.uk