THREE schoolchildren have sold their toys to help poor children in Romania.

Siblings Callum, 10, Antonia, and Isabella Chadwick, both nine, decided to raise money for poverty-stricken and homeless youngsters in the Romanian town of Comanesti after their parents told them about their plight.

Martin and Carol Chadwick, of Hazel Street, Rising Bridge, spoke to their children after Vic Brown, from Street Kids Matter, sent an email asking for help in raising funds.

Vic, of Reedsholme, helped to set up the Street Kids Matter organisation several years ago, to raise awareness of the social problems in Romania, and the work of non-profit organisations that seek to provide shelter, care, education, and a new life for the hundreds of poor, homeless young people.

Vic, who has been passionate about the plight since he began visiting the country five years ago, said: " We desperately need to raise funds to pay for a 40 ton truck with aid to reach these youngsters.

"When Martin and Carol approached me and said they would ask their children how they felt they could help in some way, I was delighted.

"Every penny counts."

Martin said: "We sat with our children and made them aware of Romania's children's plight and asked them how they felt they could help.

"They came up with the idea of selling all their old toys at a car boot. So they sorted all their toys out, priced them up and on Easter Sunday at Ramsbottom's car boot, they made an incredible £75.' Vic said: "I am absolutely delighted, and when I went to meet them on the market I was really surprised at how well they looked after their stall. It was lovely to see their commitment and enthusiasm."

Martin added: "We would also like to say a really great big thank you to everyone who supported the children and the stall."

For more information, or if you would like to help Street Kids Matter, contact Vic on 01706 226533.