NOTTINGHAMSHIRE County Council’s army of school crossing patrols helps thousands of the county’s 60,000 primary schoolchildren get safely to and from school every day.
Perhaps more commonly known as the lollipop man or lady, they provide a safer crossing place for parents, children and other people to cross the road on school journeys.
They are primarily provided for children aged five to 11 and are a familiar and friendly face at sites which meet the necessary criteria.
The County Council is currently recruiting for patrols at some of its 142 sites around the county – and one of its longest serving patrols is urging anyone interested to have a go.
Audrey Hopcroft has recently hung up her lollipop after 25 years of crossing children at Round Hill primary school in Beeston.
“I’ve loved every minute of it,” she says, “When the children come down in the morning they’re so happy and chatty – it really boosts your day.”
Coun Richard Jackson, the County Council’s portfolio holder for transport and highways said: “Our crossing patrols perform a vital and much-valued service ensuring that thousands of the county’s schoolchildren cross to and from school in safety each day.
“Anyone looking to follow Audrey’s example should get in touch with the County Council as we are always looking to recruit new patrols.”
If you are aged over 18 and are in good health, you could apply for a job in this dedicated team. Relief patrols are also needed to provide cover when regular patrols are off work. This may suit people who only want occasional work.
Anyone interested in applying to become a school crossing patrol should call 0115 977 4373.
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