The children, aged seven to ten, are from Belarus which still suffers from the after-effects of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant disaster in 1986 - and will for generations to come. They are all from one parent families and come from devastatingly poor backgrounds.

 Their four-week visit to the UK is designed to help boost their immune systems and lower their risk of developing teenage cancers - and will be the only holiday the children ever get.

Co-ordinator Audrey Trewhitt said the sponsorship offered by the two companies meant an extra two youngsters could be invited to take part.

"We cannot say how grateful we are. It is fantastic to have the support of Simon Bailes and Noble Self Drive - it really makes a difference to the lives of these children," she said.

The young visitors stay with families in the Northallerton area and explore the local countryside, visit attractions and get a taste of school life.

Simon Bailes Peugeot, the North East's leading Peugeot dealership, has supported the Friends of Chernobyl for seven years, and last year called on Noble Self Drive to help out with a minibus to help ferry the youngsters around the North East.

This year their trips included visits to the National Railway Museum in York, Flamingo Land, Castle Howard, Lightwater Valley and the North York Moors.

Audrey said: "Research has shown that the time the children spend in the North East helps to strengthen their immune systems and prolong their lives."

Simon Bailes said: "The minibus has proved a huge success and adds an extra dimension to what the youngsters are able to experience in the North East.

"The Friends of Chernobyl Children is a fantastic charity which makes a real difference and we are delighted to be able to help out."

Colin Gillespie, managing director of Noble Self Drive, added: "We are delighted to have been able to help out once again with what is a very worthwhile cause.

"The children clearly benefit from their time in the North East and it is hugely rewarding to be able to contribute to that."