A group of schoolchildren collectively planted 1000 crocuses outside their school to raise awareness of polio.

At the start of November, 17 schoolchildren who are part of the Rotakids at Brampton and Longtown Rotary Club, planted the bulbs based on a pattern.

The pattern was dug out by rotarian Tony Parrini, from the Brampton and Longtown club, and then the youngsters got busy planting and replaced the divots of turf.

A spokesperson from the rotary club said: "They are looking forward to the spring when there should be an excellent display of colour.

"The planting of crocus bulbs is used by rotary clubs around the world to raise awareness of their campaign to rid the world of polio.

"The campaign to eradicate polio has been running for more than 35 years.

"Polio cases have been reduced by 99.9 per cent since rotaries' first project to vaccinate children in the Philippines in 1979.

"Rotakids groups are often based in junior schools and are a great way for the youngsters to make friends, become involved in projects and fundraising in their local communities whilst learning about citizenship.

"The different Rotakids groups decide upon their own activities, whilst having fun, and are supported by their teachers and the local rotary club."

Headteacher at Rockcliffe School, Amanda Lee, said: “This activity was the first for our Rotakids club and we hope that through this school year the club will learn more about themselves by organising and running their own fund raising activities for the benefit of others."

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