Crocus puts focus on polio eradication campaign
Over 5,000 purple crocuses were planted at Antrim Forum and Ballyearl Arts and Leisure Centre to raise awareness of Rotary International’s efforts to eradicate polio across the globe.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Thomas Hogg, was delighted to help with the bulb planting.
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Hide Ad“These purple crocuses signify the purple dyed finger of every child within the programme who is vaccinated against polio. I would like to thank Jolly Tots and Abbey Community College for their help to plant the crocuses and support this invaluable campaign,” he commented.
Leonard Sproule, President of Newtownabbey Rotary Club said: “Since the programme was started in 1985, the disease has been reduced by 99 per cent and remains endemic in just two countries – Afghanistan and Pakistan.”
Heather Montgomery, President of Antrim Rotary Club added: “Our aim is to raise awareness and money for the eradication programme. For every £1 raised the Bill and Melina Gates Foundation will donate a further £2.”
• See more pictures in this week’s Times (on sale November 18)