A CARING dental assistant touched by the plight of kiddies orphaned by the world's worst nuclear disaster, is urging local folk to rally round to bring a little bit of sunshine into their lives.

Ten years on from Chernobyl the suffering goes on, but Amanda Srivastava is determined to do her bit to help the youngsters most affected by the tragedy.

Amanda, from Rainhill, first became aware of the gravity of the situation after watching a breakfast TV programme earlier this year. She was so moved that she promptly donated equipment from husband Vinay's dental practice in Bickerstaffe Street, St Helens.

She told the Star: "Their lives seemed so empty and wasted. The orphans are kept in a children's home where medical and dental facilities are practically non-existent. Then, when they reach the age of four, they are put into a mental institution because of the effects of the nuclear fall-out. Donating the dental equipment was easy for us and at least I know it will be put to good use."

And Amanda didn't stop there, deciding to contact other local shops and businesses in St Helens to see if they were interested in donating something as well.

Sadly, the response was disappointing with the only firm willing to lend a hand being Ethel Austin who generously donated three boxes filled to the brim with clothes for the children.

"I would like to thank Ethel Austin for their kindness, but the reaction of the other shops in St Helens has been really disheartening. I understand that this is just one of thousands of charities that need help, but it takes such a little amount of effort to really improve these children's quality of life."

And Amanda is not taking the setback lying down. Another charity convoy is due to travel to Chernobyl in October and she is re-newing her plea for donations of any spare items of clothing, toys, or unwanted gifts from businesses or members of the public.

ANYONE who would like to help can contact Amanda on 0151 430 6562.

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