Long-serving lollipop lady retires after 30 years

Marian Dawson has been a lollipop lady for 30 years

A lollipop lady who has worked on a school crossing patrol for 30 years has retired.

Marian Dawson guided pupils across the road to Sugar Hill School in Newton Aycliffe.

Mrs Dawson said she "just loves the kids" and treated them like her own grandchildren.

"It doesn't matter what you're going through in life, what kind of a day you're having, they make you smile," she said.

Known to some as Grandma Lollipop, Mrs Dawson has outlasted seven prime ministers and helped thousands of children cross the road safely in all weathers.

One of her charges said he would miss her and she was "a pleasure to have as a lollipop lady".

Another said she was "always nice to every single kid".

Marian Dawson has helped thousands of children across the road

Throughout Mrs Dawson's final shift on Tuesday afternoon, teachers, parents and children brought her flowers, cards and presents.

Durham County Council road safety manager Angela Redmond said she had been an "absolute stalwart" for the community in Newton Aycliffe.

"Cheeky little smile, twinkle in her eye, always here as a reassuring sight," she said.

Many of the parents crossing each day were children when Mrs Dawson first started.

She said she was only leaving "because my knees ache" and her husband and daughter say "it’s time".

"I just love it," she said.

"I'm going to miss them all."