Rotary International launched Polio Plus in 1985 and was a founder member of the Global Plus Eradication Initiative in 1988. Through decades of commitment by Rotary and their partners , more than 2.5 billion children have received the oral polio vaccine worldwide.

World Polio Eradication Day is on October 24 and provides an opportunity to highlight global efforts towards a Polio Free World. In the past, prior to Covid, Saundersfoot Rotary marked the occasion by purple lighting part of the Regency Hall and also the Harbour Master’s Office in the village.

They were also busy planting purple crocuses in the Sensory garden, at New Hedges roundabout, St. Issells Church. They were pleased to involve children of the local Junior Schools of St. Oswalds, Sageston and Stepaside in planting purple crocuses in their school grounds.

The reason why crocuses and purple were chosen was explained to the children. When the oral vaccine is given the child’s little finger nail is painted purple to indicate that the child has received the vaccination and purple as a colour stands out and is easily seen . Thus no children or babies will missed.

Over the last 30 years the fight to beat polio has been 99% successful but the fight to eradicate it still remains. Money raised by Rotary is never given to foreign governments or political parties but always to agencies such as World Health Organisations (W.H.O.) These agencies ensure that the monies go to the stated cause.

Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting improvements across the Globe.

Rotary Clubs are always looking for new members who wish to help others less fortunate than themselves

If you CARE, take a look at the Saundersfoot Rotary facebook page or contact Brian (Secretary) on 01834 813665.