Ashfield Park Primary School’s lollipop lady, Mrs Isobel Ball, retired last week after 17 years faithful service, safely crossing thousands of children at the busy junction on Archenfield Road.

The school organised a special send off for her including a cake made by the pupils. They said that her jolly nature and sunny smile will be missed by many pupils and parents.

Mrs Ball told the Ross Gazette that she had young children, and was a lunch time supervisor, when she heard about the opportunity to be a school crossing patrol officer, known as a ‘lollypop lady’ at Ashfield.

She said it has been a wonderful job, as she has met lots of people. One of the nicest things has been seeing mums who are pregnant bringing children to school, then seeing the new addditions as babies and all the way through school.

She added that the only drawback has been the weather, especially when it is hot or wet. She told the Gazette that she will miss the children but she is looking forward to travelling more with her husband Chris, who has also retired. They will now be able to go away outside of school holiday dates.

Chris put a picture of Isobel and her cake on Facebook and she has been overwhelmed by the number of lovely messages she has received.

Ashfield Park School added that Mrs Ball’s position will not be replaced. They said: “As from Monday, (July 3rd) children are responsible for crossing themselves, if not walking with their parents.”