Rotary auction to stamp our polio

Nov 4 2011 by Johnathon Menzies, Stirling Observer Friday

Rotary auction will help to fight polio

RESIDENTS will get the chance to help eradicate polio from the developing world when 100 items go under the hammer at a charity auction in Dunblane.

Big-heated members of the Bridge of Allan and Dunblane Rotary Club are hosting the event at the cathedral city’s Victoria Halls on Saturday, November 12, from 10am-2pm.

It’s part of a major global fundraising drive, supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, in which Rotary clubs collectively hope to raise 200 million dollars by the end of June 2012.

Proceeds will be put towards eliminating the disease from the likes of Afghanistan, India, Nigeria and Pakistan, where polio is still endemic, and others where new cases have come to light recently.

Local rotary secretary, Graham Russell, thanked all those who have donated lots and said a silver pendant – gifted by Dunblane jeweller Graham Stewart and worth £500 – was set to be one of the star attractions.

He added: “We have now received 100 donations of goods and services from individuals and businesses in the local community, all of which we hope to auction on the day.

“The auction itself is scheduled to start at 11am.

“Teas and home baking will be available. Everyone is welcome to attend and bid for any of the items.”

Mr Russell continued: “The polio eradication campaign has been running since 1985 and now there are only four countries left in the world where the disease is still endemic.

“It only costs 50p to vaccinate a child against polio.”

Details of all the items up for grabs on the day can be found at the website www.dunblanerotary.org.uk, or a catalogue can be requested by telephoning Mr Russell on 01786 833367.

Bids can also be made in advance of the auction by emailing stuartbrown97@yahoo.com.

Organisers have said that all submissions will be acknowledged.