TWO Newport peace activists, who acted as human shields in Iraq in a bid to prevent the war, are appealing for donations to help the country's children left orphaned and homeless.

Kevin and Helen Williams, both aged 35, are making an emotional return in the next few weeks to help the increasing number of children on the streets of the Iraqi capital Baghdad.

As we revealed last month, the couple - of Westfield Way, Malpas - are planning to help fund and support an orphanage which will offer shelter to the increasing number of vulnerable street children in the Iraqi capital.

Mr Williams said: "A safe place to sleep and perhaps one decent meal a day is the least that these children deserve and need."

And they are appealing to generous Argus readers to help the Iraqi children by sending them donations.

The Williams will be supporting the Dar-al-Hanan Orphan-age, which has continued to operate with no funding.

They also hope to rent an additional building to expand the operation but desperately require funding to keep the project moving forward.

Mrs Williams added: "We are funding ourselves to get to Iraq, but we need help to support the orphanage."

Anyone wanting to donate to their appeal can do so by sending cheques, made payable toOur Home - Iraq and posted to Our Home - Iraq, PO Box 70, Newport, Gwent, South Wales, or visit the website http:// ourhome-iraq.blogspot.com.