A WORLD record crocus planting attempt is going to be made in Redditch – and local residents are being urged to pick up a dibber and take part.
Organised by Redditch Kingfisher Rotary Club and set for Sunday, October 13 at Arrow Valley Park, it’s hoped up to 200 people will be willing to roll up their sleeves and join in.
It’s promising to be a morning for all the family with a meat and veggie barbecue lined up to keep everyone fuelled up and happy.
As well as getting into the Guinness Book of Records the aim is to highlight the ongoing battle spearheaded by Rotary to eradicate the crippling disease polio worldwide.
“The crocus planting is not a random activity but part of a nationwide awareness and fundraising project across the UK and Ireland,” said Amanda Watkin, general secretary of Rotary International, and member of Redditch Kingfisher Rotary Club.
“Each year, Rotary uses the purple crocus as a reminder of the ink placed on a child’s finger during the national immunisation days that take place as part of the campaign to eradicate the polio virus from our world.
“In Redditch we have people living with post-polio syndrome.
“Having survived the childhood effects which range from total paralysis to mild neurological dysfunction, the ongoing effect often leads to breathing difficulty in later years.
“We want to ensure no one has to experience this in future so knowing the effects and taking action to eradicate this disease is a key driver for all Rotary members here in Redditch and around the world.”
The aim on the day is to plant 12,000 crocus bulbs in one hour.
To help out big hearted Redditch charity Where Next? is busy making the dibbers to make planting them easier.
To get involved or find out more contact Amanda at [email protected].
