People are invited to cheer on a Purple Flamingo, Purple for Polio Pedalo Race in Southport this weekend!
The fun event, organised by The Rotary Club of Southport, will take place at the Marine Lake in Southport from 2pm this Sunday (25th September).
The first racers are expected to set off near the Marine Lake Cafe and Bar at around 2.30pm.
Visitors to the area are welcome to cheer on the event and to donate to the Rotarians out collecting, as they continue with their campaign to eradicate polio.
Polio is a paralysing and potentially deadly infectious disease that most commonly affects children under the age of five. The virus spreads from person to person, typically through contaminated water.
Rotary has been working to eradicate polio for more than 35 years, with its goal of ridding the world of this disease is closer than ever.
The Rotary Club of Southport is organising its Purple Flamingo, Purple for Polio Pedalo race on the Marine Lake to raise awareness and money ahead of World Polio Day, which takes place on 24th October.
International Committee chairman of The Rotary Club of Southport Barry Sillito said: “We have ordered 4,000 crocus corms again this year and are looking to plant them in Victoria Park in Southport, St John’s in Crossens, Botanic Gardens in Churchtown and some roundabouts and window boxes.
“But while I was walking around the Marine Lake with my darling wife, I had a brilliant eureka moment for another polio fundraiser.
“Forget Red Rum – how about Purple Percy?
“As the Marine Lake Pedalos migrate to warmer climes at the end of September, we are looking forward to holding our race on Sunday 25th September.
“Each of our committees is asked to provide a team of four and we have a pedalo race from the Marine Lake south shore to the suspension bridge and back. The winner gets a Purple for Percy cup and a bottle of purple champagne.
“Spectators will be encouraged to stand on the Venetian Bridge cheering and waving for all their worth whilst a Rotary collection can be made from the tumultuous crowd.
“I would like to thank Dave Symmons of Southport Water Sports for his support.”
The trophies will be presented by Stand Up For Southport founder Andrew Brown.
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