‘Purple’ landmarks to mark World Polio Day
Sunderland landmarks including Penshaw Monument, Northern Spire Bridge, Hylton Castle and Beacon of Light look set to be lit up purple this month in recognition of World Polio Day.
The initiative, which will take place on Sunday, is part of a joint venture between SunderlandCityCouncilandRotary clubs across the North East.
TheRotaryClubhashelped leadthefighttoeradicatepolio since 1984, with Pakistan and Afghanistan now the only two countries where the disease is believed to still be present.
One Rotarian who knows more than most about the impactsofthediseaseisthePresidentofHoughtonRotaryClub, GeoffPratt,whocontractedpolio as a baby.
Geoff,68,who’salsoamember of the Sunderland branch of the British Polio Fellowship, said: “I had polio when I was less than one year old. It has left me with a withered leg and I walk with a limp. However, it has had quite a subtle impact on my life compared to some people.
"Polio is not one of those things which goes away and everyone who has had it will have some sort of impact on theirbody.Weapproachedthe Councilandtheythoughtitwas a great idea.
"Themainaimistoraisethe profileofthebattletoeradicate polio although there may also be some fundraising events to go with it.”
The significance of purple islinkedtothevaccinationprocess.
Geoff, a retired archaeologist, added: “Every time a child in the developing world has a vaccine their little finger is dyed purple to show they’ve been vaccinated.”
OtherWearsidelandmarks to be lit up purple include Fulwell Mill, Keel Square and the lighthouseatCliffeParkinSeaburn.
Cllr Claire Rowntree, Deputy Leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “Sunderland landmarks are regularly lit for good works and causes. These lightings help raise awareness for World Polio Day and we are showing our city’s support for this important campaign to eradicate polio.”