BACK in November, members of Holsworthy Rotary Club planted nearly 4,000 crocuses around the memorial trees in Stanhope Park. Now, as spring approaches, members can see the fruits of that work as the crocuses flower.

The purple crocus is a symbol of Rotary’s global programme to eliminate the scourge of polio from the world. Started in 1986, and generously supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the programme has supported the immunisation of children, particularly in the developing world.

Earlier this year, the continent of Africa was declared ‘polio free’. There is still work to do in Africa though, and there are a few countries, notably Pakistan and Afghanistan, that have not yet achieved polio-free status.

A Holsworthy Rotary spokesperson said: “Rotary globally is committed to finishing this important task, and continues to raise funds and provide support for the programme.

“The crocuses planted in Stanhope Park will be a lasting reminder of the programme, while providing a welcome splash of spring colour.”

For more information, visit www.rotary.org/en/our-causes/ending-polio