A Winchester supply teacher hopes to run in the Flora London Marathon in April to raise money for the charity, Chernobyl Children's Lifeline.

Paul Silvester (42), of Fairfield Road, is treasurer of the Winchester branch of the charity, which aims to offer children from those areas affected by the world's biggest nuclear disaster a month of respite in Britain where they can breathe fresh air and eat uncontaminated food.

Last summer, the branch hosted a group of youngsters from Belarus. Staying with Paul and his family were Artiom Zhdanovich (10) and Sergei Pietrovich (9).

The charity raises money to fly the children to Britain where host families care for them and organise activities.

"The children love being active," said Paul. "They love being normal kids and being able to play. The reality of their situation at home is that there is not much food as most of the land is contaminated and their immune systems are working overtime to battle the radiation that surrounds them."

Paul hopes to raise up to £2,500 for the charity. "If people would like to sponsor me in the marathon, or can offer activities for the children while they are here, that would be great." he said.

Paul may be contacted on 01962-863234.

l Hampshire Autistic Society would like to hear from anyone willing to run on its behalf in the London marathon - ring 01489-880881 for an application form or for sponsorship details