A POPULAR Wolverley ‘lollipop lady’ has wrapped up her stick and retired after 39 years of helping children safely across the road.

Sheila Voce has been a school crossing patrol officer at Wolverley Sebright Primary School, having started work for Worcestershire County Council in 1973.

In honour of her lengthy service, a special assembly took place at the school, which gave teachers, pupils and the School Crossing Patrol Service a chance to say thank you to her for all her hard work and dedication.

Ms Voce was presented with a bouquet of flowers and garden vouchers by Christine Bridgwater, school crossing patrol supervisor, after a thank you speech at the school.

Tina Green, the county council’s schools crossing patrol co-ordinator, who worked closely with Ms Voce for many years, said: "We would like to say a big thank you for all Sheila’s hard work over the years as the school crossing patrol for Wolverley Sebright Primary School.

“Sheila has protected children in all weathers and always with a smile and we are very grateful for the commitment and enthusiasm she showed right up until her retirement. We wish Sheila a very happy and fulfilling retirement."

Conservative councillor John Smith, the authority’s cabinet member for highways and transport, added: “School crossing patrols deliver an essential service to the community, assisting both children and adults to cross the road safely.

“I would like to thank Sheila for her long service and the great work she has done over the years.”