08/11/2026
Every year we plant purple crocuses in public places in Newport Pagnell and Olney. In fact Rotarians across the world do the very same thing in their own locations, but do you know why?
Since 1979, Rotary International has spearheaded a campaign called 'END POLIO NOW' Rotarians have raised more than US $2.9 billion for the cause, helping to protect 3 billion children in 122 countries from this paralysing disease. This has been achieved in conjunction with the Bill Gates (Microsoft) Foundation. The project has been successful in all countries in the world with the exception of two small areas in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
The annual planting of crocuses is to give recognition of this achievement.
When the crocuses emerge in early spring you will note the purple colour. This was inspired by Rotary reflecting the fact that all children have one of their fingers painted purple after receiving a Polio vaccination. This is to prevent them receiving more than one dose.
Please visit these locations during the early spring to see these exotic flowers emerging. The Community Orchard and Fire Station in Newport and The Allotment str and surrounding area in Olney.
