A GROUP of youngsters from a nuclear-stricken area of the Ukraine were guests at a football game last night.

Children and their leaders from Chernobyl were invited to Willington AFC's friendly against Murton, where they were given the VIP treatment.

They met the players and were treated to refreshments before watching the match.

Youngsters have visited the area every year since 1997.

Chairman John Phelan said: "They loved it last time, and loved running around the football field. We're trying to do things as a football club."

The visits are aimed to give the youngsters a break from their hometown, which is still badly affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in 1986.