A luxury fundraising event has been set up to bring children blighted by a nuclear disaster back to Moray.
Friends of Chernobyl Children (FOCC) helps youngsters from Belarus reap the health benefits from a month of fresh air by visiting the region.
A rallying call was issued by the group following last year’s visit to ensure there was enough money to continue to build links between the countries.
Now a luxurious dinner dance and pampering experience in Craigellachie, entitled Opulence, will be used to pay for children living in poverty to sample life in Scotland.
FOCC Moray chairwoman Clare Cotton said: “These children benefit from relief from the harmful effects of the radiation absorbed through their food, drink and the air around them as a result of the Chernobyl disaster.
“Before our month of love and care our children are often shy, low in confidence, unhealthy and in need of some tender, loving care.
“Thanks to community fundraising support and events like Opulence, we’re confident that children can continue to return to the same hosts for up to five years.”
Opulence will include a day of make-up, hair styling and fashion before gin tasting and cocktails in the evening at the Craigellachie Hotel.
Last year, 19 children from Belarus visited Moray for a fun-filled visit that included trips to RAF Lossiemouth, the Findhorn ecovillage and kick-boxing lessons.
Opulence organiser Laura McNeil said: “I’ve seen first hand the good work of the charity and wanted to help create an annual event that will support the charity to run for years to come.”
The event takes place on Saturday, March 18. Tickets can be booked by searching for Opulence Moray on Facebook.
