AID volunteers from a Thornbury charity are planning more missions to Bulgaria to ease the plight of abandoned and disabled children and adults.

A team from the town's Holding out Hope charity has returned from its first foray into the Eastern European state following reports of woeful conditions in state-run institutions.

The charity has previously concentrated on victims of neglect in Romania but is now turning its attentions to Bulgaria following a TV documentary on the suffering of unwanted and disabled children - and handicapped adults - in the former Communist state.

Charity founder Pete Brady, his 17-year-old daughter, Jessica and charity secretary Becky Cooper, visited two "care" homes during the four day trip and discovered conditions to be as bad as they feared.

"The overall picture was exactly like what I experienced in Romania 16 years ago and the sad atmosphere said it all." said Pete.

"These are places where children and adults have no sort of life that's worth living and Christmas pretty much passes them by. It's like any other day.

"There's a lot politicking going on and we were not allowed in to see the children themselves. Because of the film there was some anti-British feeling from the authorities, although some of the staff were welcoming."

The team brought Christmas treats including chocolate, fruit and festive decorations, for the two homes they visited.

"It was a successful first trip although it was basically a scouting mission. We now have a much better idea of what is needed and where we can best direct our resources."

He said follow-up trips to Bulgaria were already being planned.

"We are not forgetting Romania where we already have commitments but there's no doubt that conditions there have improved.

"The charity is committed to supporting people in the East European countries and at present Bulgaria's needs are much greater."

Anyone wishing to support the charity's work should call Pete Brady on 01454 411714.

* The work of Holding out Hope was recently boosted by a donation of more than £1,230 from one of Pete's own neighbours.

Vandana Sharma raised the cash by being sponsored for a challenging trekking expedition in Brazil and other fundraising events, supported by local individuals and businesses.

"I wanted to support a local charity and I know Holding out Hope does very good work without administration costs," she said.