A FACT-FINDING team which accompanied a group of cyclists making their way from Belarus to Blackburn have arrived home, safe and sound.

Three cyclists from Blackburn-based Friends of Chernobyl's Children charity are raising money with an epic, month-long, 1,500 mile bike ride.

And the support team who travelled with them to the polluted city have successfully renegotiated contracts with the education authority in Mogilev and returned to Blackburn.

The charity works with the people of Belarus, exposed to radiation following the Chernobyl disaster of 1986, to welcome children for month-long holidays with British families.

Olwyn Keogh, head of the charity, said: "It has been very humbling to experience the poverty in which the majority of the population strives to exist without complaint but we have been welcomed as kings.

"Despite three flu epidemics, freezing temperatures and a recent outbreak of food poisoning which put 300 children in hospital, our children have experienced fewer problems and remain stronger than their siblings."

It is hoped the cycle marathon, due to end in Blackburn on May 12, will raise £5,000 for 10 children to stay in Clitheroe for a month.

Three groups are scheduled to visit East Lancashire. Two will head for Blackburn -- one this month, another in September --and a third will arrive in Clitheroe in June.

The cyclists are said to be in good spirits and doing well but are "very moved" by their experience.

Anyone wishing to sponsor them or donate money can contact 01200 428383. The trip can be tracked on the website www.focc.org.uk