When Wolverhampton schools go out for summer this week, children won't just be saying 'see you in September' to their teachers and classmates.

Type=image;ImageID=1750;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=Some of the dedicated School Crossing Patrol wardens;TitleClass=strong;

They will also be thanking their 'diamond' lollipop men and women who have been ensuring they are able to cross the road safely to and from their school over the last 60 years.

The School Crossing Patrol (SCP) service celebrates its Diamond Jubilee in 2013, and patrols in Wolverhampton will receive a special commemorative badge and certificate as part of an event later in the year to mark this important milestone.

The badge and certificate have been provided by Road Safety GB and are being distributed to SCPs across the country to mark the 60th anniversary of the service.

Councillor John Reynolds, Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet Member for City Services, said: "The SCP service was officially created by the School Crossing Patrol Act in 1953 and the first official patrol started work in 1954.

"Here in Wolverhampton we currently have 89 School Crossing Patrols serving the city.

"The team may vary in age and personality but they all have one aim, which is to keep the children of Wolverhampton safe on their way to and from school every day."

The longest serving patrol in Wolverhampton is Pat Hunting who has been in the role for over 36 years.

She said "I really enjoy crossing the children over safely, I don't know what I would do without seeing them every day, they make my day"

"While the uniform and sign have changed to meet modern standards - and patrols can now stop traffic to cross any pedestrian, adult or child - the role is essentially the same today as it was 60 years ago.

"The need for patrols will remain as long as children walk to school and cross busy roads - here's to another 60 years of the service!"

  • released: Wednesday 24 July, 2013