Witney's Purple Crocuses

Why so many Purple Crocuses? It's part of a national planting scheme raising awareness of efforts to rid the world of Polio. A campaign led by Rotarians across the world..

The purple crocus is the symbol of Rotary’s worldwide campaign, the colour representing the indelible purple dye used to mark the little finger of every child as they are immunised. It’s a vital tool to ensure no-one is missed.

Eradicating Polio is a tall order, yet for over 30 years Rotarians around the world have worked tirelessly to reduce the number of polio-endemic countries from 125 down to just 2. This has been achieved by administerng vaccine to over 2.5 billion children!!! A mammoth task, often undertaken in territories in the throes of conflict: Afghanistan, Pakistan & Nigeria

 “‘We are so close to beating polio” says project leader Brian Ford “It’s vital that we make that final push and complete the task so no more young people suffer paralysis caused by this disabling disease. .
 
With final eradication now closer than ever, Purple4Polio, is designed to unite communities and engage in fund raising activities to achieve the final goal.

Look out for the Purpla Crocuses from early February onwards at the botom of Tower Hill, In Langdale Gate, outside Witney Hospital, the two Health Centres in Welch Way and in the raised beds outside the District Council Town Centre Shop also in Welch Way.