One of the East Riding’s longest serving school crossing patrols has hung up her lollipop after 40 years’ service.
Brenda Gunther, 84, from Goole, has been a familiar and much-loved face for both children and adults at school starting and leaving times in the town for four decades.
During her service, Brenda has mainly worked on Western Road, Goole, helping youngsters and their parents to safely cross the road to Parkside Primary School.
Brenda said: “It’s time for me to retire.
“I’ve really liked the job. It’s got me out and talking to people. I’ve met some really nice people.
“The parents and kids have been great.”
Brenda, who turned 85 in January, started as a school crossing patrol, or lollipop lady, in 1985, originally as a favour, filling in for a friend who went on holiday, but she then carried on with the job.
For a time, her husband Eric also worked as a school crossing patrol for the council in the Pasture Road area – from 1993 to 2007 – and they were known as a lollipop couple.
Now retired, she hopes to enjoy more travel. “I love my bus trips,” she said.
Brenda was presented with flowers and a framed certificate confirming her years of service from East Riding of Yorkshire Council on her last day (14 January).
Colin Walker, head of transportation services at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “Brenda Gunther’s 40 years of service is a remarkable achievement, and it is fitting that we mark her retirement on her final day at her school crossing patrol site.
“We wish Brenda all the very best for her retirement and thank her for her dedication to ensuring the safety of pupils in Goole.”
Comment on this story