A fire officer drove for three days to the Ukraine in an humanitarian mission of mercy to deliver thousands of pounds worth of essential supplies.

Guy Rampersaud, 28, of Green Lane, Chislehurst, delivered an ambulance, medical supplies, clothes and fire fighting equipment to the Ukranians, who have seen their standard of living fall through the floor over recent years.

It took him three days of driving through France, Belgium, Holland, Germany and Poland, to make the journey. He slept in his transit van along the way.

Mr Rampersaud made the two-week trip with two other members of British Humanitarian Aid, a charity which sends essential supplies to countries in need.

The trio spent most of their time in Chornigov, close to the scene of the worlds worst nuclear accident at Chernobyl, delivering the supplies to a fire station, orphanage and hospital.

Conditions in the hospital are poor, with staff and patients having to cope without lighting or soap.

The head of the orphanage is having to cope on just £20 a month whilst paying rent of £20 a month.

He said: It was a totally humbling experience, especially when I visited the orphanage.

Some of the children were terribly deformed as a result of the Chernobyl disaster.

He added: The people at the hospital were absolutely delighted when we delivered the ambulance, which was paid for by my organisation.

I was so moved by what I saw, I shall be going back next year.