Bellway’s Charlotte Gate development in Broxden near Perth will be a sea of purple next spring to support an international campaign to eradicate polio.   The Rotary Club of Perth Kinnoull is planting 5,000 crocus bulbs at the popular development near Perth as part of its Purple4Polio campaign.

For over 30 years, Rotary has been working tirelessly to rid the world of the deadly disease and as a result of its members’ efforts the number of polio endemic countries has dropped from 125 to just three. Over 2.5 billion children have received vaccinations thanks to the help of Rotary.

Rotary members, along with representatives from Bellway including Sales Manager Lyn Maloney, planted the first bulbs on Thursday (26th October).

When they bloom at the end of March they will flower in the shape of a Rotary Wheel at the main entrance to the site.

International Convenor George Delgaty said: “We are delighted that Bellway is allowing us to plant bulbs in such a prominent place near the main traffic lights at the entrance to the development. Hopefully people driving past will see it and want to find more about the work we do in the local community and the polio campaign.”

Purple has become a symbol for polio eradication as children have their pinkies dyed purple when they are immunised in developing countries. Rotary has joined forces with the Royal Horticultural Society to plant over 7 million purple crocus bulbs across Great Britain and Ireland.

Fraser Conn, Sales Director, Bellway Homes (Scotland) Ltd, said: “We are delighted to be involved in such a worthy campaign and it will be wonderful to see crocuses bloom next year. Crocuses are a great symbol of hope, as soon as you see them you instantly think at last winter is coming to an end.”