By Isle of Wight Observer
Three members of Rotary on the Wight will cycle across the Island, on October 31, to raise awareness of the international campaign to eradicate polio.
Paul Wheeler, David Langdon, and Ian Pratt will travel from Yarmouth Harbour to Ryde Esplanade, stopping at Cowes Harbour Quay and St James’s Square, Newport, along the way.
The trio will be riding e-bikes loaned by Wight Cycle Hire.
Rotary launched its campaign to eradicate polio in 1985, when more than 350,000 cases were recorded worldwide each year. The disease can cause paralysis, permanent disability, and death, particularly among children. However, the charity warns that until the disease is completely eradicated, the risk of further outbreaks remains. Poliovirus was detected in sewage samples at three locations in the UK last year.
The cyclists hope their journey will encourage Islanders to support the continuing vaccination campaign.
Donations will be matched two-to-one by the Gates Foundation, meaning every £1 donated becomes £3 towards the fight against polio.
Anyone wishing to support the fund-raising effort can donate at iw.observer/eradicate-polio.