70 years after the first school crossing patrol teams across Leicestershire planted their stop signs in the middle of roads, lollipop men and women across the county are celebrating the platinum jubilee.
First created in 1953, School Crossing Patrols play a vital road safety role and encourage active travel on school journeys. Famed for the “lollipop” stop sign and high-vis uniform, patrols stop traffic to cross any pedestrian, adult or child during their working hours.
The 70th anniversary was celebrated at a special event for the 70-strong school crossing patrol team at County Hall, with badges and certificates given out to mark the occasion, as well as special long-service awards.
Leicestershire is lucky to have long-serving patrols, including Sandie Flamson from Whitwick, who is, incredibly, in her fiftieth year. Jennifer Hooke from Sapcote marks a fantastic 45 years, Mary Reburn from Coleorton celebrates 40 years, whilst Kath Parker from Loughborough and Trish Wells from Blaby have passed 35 years.
Councillor Ozzy O’Shea, Lead Member for Environment & Transport, said: “It is so fantastic to celebrate the platinum jubilee of a service many of us have fond memories of. Our school crossing patrol team are out come rain or shine during the school year to help our young people cross the road safely.
“This celebration marks the great work all our team do and recognises those who have been with us for decades. I want to thank them for their hard work and wish them luck as we head towards another school year.”
Sandie Flamson, who is celebrating her fiftieth year, said: “I love my job. I’ve done it for fifty years now and it keeps you both mentally and physically fit, especially getting to talk to the children and parents every day.
“It doesn’t feel like I’ve done fifty years until someone comes up to you and says I helped their grandma cross the road when they were at school!”
Leicestershire County Council has a number of school crossing patrol positions across the county. Anyone interested can visit www.leicestershire.gov.uk/jobs to apply.
