A FIXBY couple believe they are close to being involved in a key piece of medical history.

John and Chris Philip have just returned from another trip to India, where they are closely involved in a mass polio immunisation project.

And, after helping hundreds of young children on their latest visit, the couple believe there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Mrs Philip said: “We have been told by health experts that polio could be eradicated in India by the end of 2012.

“It will have to remain clear of the disease for three further years to be acknowledged as such, but we are delighted to be one small part in such a big moment in history.

“I remember many years ago when they announced that smallpox had been wiped out and now we are close to ending something that has destroyed so many lives”.

Mr Philip, a retired surgeon, and his wife, of Dorchester Road, got involved with the project as part of Rotary International.

They have paid many visits to the sub continent and have been responsible back in the UK for raising many thousands of pounds to help the cause.

On their latest visit last month, they met some of the unfortunate children who have been afflicted by polio.