Hampshire celebrates the Diamond Anniversary of the School Crossing Patrol Service

Wednesday, 20 March 2013

The Chairman of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Andrew Joy, held a special 60th Anniversary Reception and Presentation to celebrate and recognise the much loved School Crossing Patrol Service that was originally set up in 1953 in the UK.

Over 100 serving school crossing patrols and their guests attended the special presentation in the Great Hall in Winchester last night.

The evening gave the opportunity for the Chairman and members of Hampshire County Council to meet and thank individuals for the invaluable job they do for the county, and for patrols to meet old friends and make new ones.

Long-serving Sylvia Rosewarn, who has been helping young children cross the road outside Orchard Lea Infant School, in Fareham, for the last 36 years, was recognised for her contribution to the service during the event. Sylvia has had many positive experiences of being a lollipop lady. In 2008 she was awarded Honorary Citizen of the Year by Fareham Borough Council, in recognition of her 30 years' service, and she was also a finalist in the National Transport Awards for Employee of the Year 2012.

Remembered for his contribution to road safety was Ray Elsmore. Ray was a School Crossing Patrol officer for 13 years, serving 11 of those years at the Queen's Inclosure School in Waterlooville before his tragic death in December while on duty. He was a well loved and hard working man, who would often say how being a school crossing patrol gave him great pleasure.

Paying tribute to all the staff, Councillor Joy said: "School crossing patrols provide a very important service and play a valuable role in our local communities. They are very popular with all the young children they help cross roads, and their parents and carers. These men and women are on duty whatever the weather to ensure that our young children can cross the road to school safely."

Councillor Joy continued: "I'm delighted to be celebrating the 60th anniversary of the service and to recognise formally the valuable work done by these members of our workforce."

Valerie Tibble, who helps children from Preston Candover Primary cross the busy main road in Basingstoke, said: "I never dreamed the job would be as good as it is. The children are wonderful, they keep my spirits high at times when I really need it and they know we are there to help them."

Christine Williams, who helps children attending Shamblehurst Primary School in Hedge End, said: "I've been helping children cross the road for 17 years. I love it and I love the kids - you see them growing up and get to see their little personalities coming out. I feel very responsible for them."

The search is also on for the best Lollipop Person in the County. In association with Heart FM, the hunt is on to find Hampshire's 'Diamond' School Crossing Patrol and Hampshire County Council wants nominations from children who think their school has the best Lollipop person.

• Vote for Hampshire's top school crossing patrol

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