The five Rotary clubs in Nantwich and Crewe have worked together in recent months to promote October’s “Purple for Polio” week; a worldwide Rotary initiative to raise awareness of how close we are to eradicating this disease.
Why purple? Because when children in low-income countries receive the drops to protect them against polio, their finger is dyed purple to show they’ve been immunised.
Richard Wharton from Rotary Club of Crewe and Nantwich Weaver organised and distributed purple crocus corms. These were given out in Nantwich Square for people to plant at home. “We asked children to send us a photo of their blooms next spring. We look forward to some bright pictures”, he said.
Tony Webb from Rotary Club Of Nantwich organised for the illumination of both the church and the Nantwich Civic Hall. The LED lights of the Civic proved much more dramatic. He also worked with Wych-Malbank Rotary - Nantwich Rotarian, Clare Hoy, to persuade shops and businesses in the town to present a purple window for the week. Tony said, “The staff in many shops leapt at the chance to have a go at this. We therefore decided to give a prize for the best one, voted by the members of Wych-Malbank from the photos taken by Nigel Keegan.” The winner was Chrissies in Hospital Street and Clare and Tony presented a small prize at the end of the week. Second place went to 34 Pepper Street.
Meanwhile Rotary Club of Crewe in Crewe, Tom Protheroe (along with Tim Jones from Bentley Cheshire Rotary) was active in signing up businesses to turn purple for the week. They included Crewe Lyceum, Swansway Garages and Hunters Lodge. Mr Panayi of Hunters Lodge said, “We are always pleased to help Rotary for this very worthwhile cause.” And did you spot the Municipal Buildings too? Tom has also campaigned in the town resulting in thousands of crocus corms being planted and school pupils showing awareness with purple non-uniform days.
Hopefully local people are all now aware of the Polio Campaign and Rotary’s role in trying to End It Now. “Working together has been good fun,” said Clare, “and we’ve achieved so much more by pooling our efforts, skills and resources.”