Host families 'heartbroken' at cancellation of Chernobyl Christmas visit

Adi Roche of Chernobul Children International, and Igor Shadzkou in 2016. Igor's host family say they are 'devastated' that he won't be able to spend Christmas with them this year. Picture: Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin

Host families have spoken of their heartbreak following the cancellation of the annual Chernobyl kids’ Christmas visit for the first time in 20 years.

Chernobyl Children International's Adi Roche said the decision to cancel the Santa Claus flights was taken with “deep sadness” but they had no option because of Covid-19 travel restrictions.