A LOCAL couple have raised over £1,000 for PolioPlus, the Rotary International charity for the eradication of polio worldwide, after celebrating their golden wedding anniversary.
Former Frome mayor Philip Whitmarsh and his wife of 50 years, Christine, asked everyone invited to their celebrations not to give presents but make a donation to PolioPlus.
“This was supported well above our expectations and over £1,000 has now been handed over to the Rotary Club of Frome for their polio appeal,” said Philip.
“I suffered polio myself in 1945 – 70 years ago this month as a four year old. I also had my autobiography published (I’m Not Prepared to Accept That) in 2008 which describes my experiences overcoming polio, so PolioPlus is an appeal very close to my heart.”
Philip and Christine met in November 1961 at the Memorial Theatre in Frome and were married in Christ Church on 19th April 1965. They celebrated their golden wedding with 100 guests – at the Assembly Rooms at the rear of the Memorial Theatre.
Philip served as Mayor of Frome from 2000/01 and was a Mendip Ditrict Councillor from 1991 before standing down in 2011.
He continues to raise funds for PolioPlus by talking about ‘My tussle with polio’ at local groups/ organisations. If you would like to help or need more information contact him at philchris@telecomplus.org.uk
