Town's lollipop lady retires after 21 years

Elaine Dunn has helped countless children, and their grown-ups, to cross the roads around Middlesbrough

A lollipop lady is retiring after spending decades helping countless children cross the roads of Middlesbrough.

Now one of the town's longest serving crossing patrol officers, Elaine Dunn is hanging up her lollipop after 21 years of keeping youngsters safe.

The 66-year-old is now hoping to inspire others to follow in her footsteps.

She said: "It's such an important role, and I love being out and about whatever the weather - it suited me down to the ground."

'A pleasure'

The mother of six, who also has eight grandchildren, spent her final week helping youngsters negotiate the zebra crossing close to Captain Cook Primary School.

During her long service Ms Dunn, assisted by her trusty lollipop, has helped children from "every school in Middlesbrough".

She said: "It's been amazing, I've loved every minute of it, it's always been a pleasure.

"I'm a real people person and there's so much more to the job than simply helping the kids to cross the road safely."

It is not just children that have needed Elaine Dunn's help over the years

Middlesbrough Council's assistant road safety officer Michelle Scallen said Ms Dunn had been "an amazing and invaluable servant to the town and road safety team."

She added: "She's resilient, professional and, above all, a caring, friendly person who is always there to support others.

"She leaves a big gap to fill."

The council's road safety team is now recruiting crossing patrol officers.