Focus On The Crocus!

Planting purple crocus corms in Banstead Wildlife Field to support the campaign to end polio took place on 8 November.

The event was organised by Banstead Rotarian Diana Beck who engaged a number of local groups and schools to participate. She is also a long-standing member of Banstead Horticultural Society who are wanting to secure ongoing support to preserve the location and who also lent their time and expertise.

President Jane Illingworth welcomed the Mayor and Mayoress Eddy and Sarah Humphreys who toured and spoke to all the Banstead Rotary helpers and volunteer groups. Later in the morning Rebecca Paul MP joined us plus Councillor Nadine Moses.

Massive thanks to all the following for their hard work: Banstead Manor Hallmark Luxury Care home, The Beacon School Student Council, Banstead Community Infants School, Banstead Community Junior School, St Anne’s Primary School, Banstead Village In Bloom, Sutton Nonsuch Rotary and Surrey Choices.

In recent years Banstead Rotary members have planted crocuses all along the High Street. Of course this brightens up Banstead Village each spring, but, it also serves to raise awareness of the Rotary campaign to end polio.

Why purple? When children are immunised, they often dip their little fingers in purple ink so that the medics know who has been vaccinated.

Rotary International has been working tirelessly to eradicate polio. There are only 2 countries left where the virus is an issue. You can learn more at https://www.endpolio.org/!

Many thanks to Emma Sears of REEL FEEL PRODUCTIONS for permission to use her excellent photographs of the day. Do not further duplicate or distribute these pictures without express permission from Emma