Carnock Pupils Walk a Mile to Help End Polio

Pupils from Carnock Primary School in Fife took part in a sponsored walk on Monday morning to raise funds for the global effort to eradicate polio, an event organised in partnership with the Rotary Club of West Fife.

The youngsters completed three circuits of Carnock Park, adjacent to the school, covering a total distance of one mile. Leading the way, pupils carried a specially made "Walk A Mile For Polio" banner created by Rotarian Aileen North, who walked at the front of the group alongside her fellow Rotarian Robert North, who good-naturedly acted as the "broom wagon" at the back to ensure no one was left behind.

The event, coordinated by Sarah Ewart, Principal Teacher at the school, proved a resounding success, with pupils and staff raising approximately £85. Thanks to a matching contribution from the Bill Gates Foundation, this amount will enable around 1,300 children to be vaccinated against polio.

World Polio Day Connection

The walk was timed to coincide with World Polio Day 2025, which took place on Friday 24th October. This annual observance brings together Rotary members, public health advocates, and supporters worldwide to recognise progress in the fight against polio and reinforce the actions needed to eradicate the disease completely.

The Rotary Club of West Fife chose to promote Rotary's ongoing work to end polio at a particularly significant time, as the world has become increasingly aware of the threat of the virus returning in conflict zones such as Gaza.

Rotary International has been at the forefront of polio eradication efforts since organising the initial vaccination programmes and remains committed to staying involved until the disease is completely eliminated. Carnock Primary School's enthusiastic participation demonstrates how local communities can make a meaningful contribution to this vital global health initiative.

The successful event not only raised valuable funds but also helped educate young people about global health challenges and the importance of vaccination programmes in protecting children worldwide.