Top Of The Lolli-Pops!

Every school day Harry Hayes dons his yellow coat and takes up his lollipop stick to see children safely across the road. But it’s his service above and beyond the call of duty that earned him the Renault ‘Safety Matters’ School Crossing Patrol of the Year award.

72 year old Harry has been patrolling at St Marie’s Catholic Primary School in Kirkby for eight years. He beat off strong competition to scoop the prize, which judged nominees on their high standard of service, as well as outstanding personal qualities and dedication to the community.

Headteacher at St Marie’s, Pat Cooney, said, “We’re delighted that Harry’s been recognised with this award. He commits a great deal of time to the school and teaches our parents and young children about road safety through the council’s Kerbcraft scheme. He even swaps his coat at Christmas time to play Santa Claus. Our Harry is much more than a lollipop man. As the children wrote, ‘He is a super hero!’”

The children’s poems and commendations helped secure Harry the title, which he accepted along with a £500 prize at a ceremony in London.

Laura Jones, aged 11, writes, “Harry is our school crossing patrol. He always helps the small children cross the road. He also helps older people to cross the road. He comes out whatever the weather is like, snow, rain, wind. Harry is always there. Harry always greets you, he is a very cheerful man. He puts himself in danger for everyone. Speedy cars and motorbikes go flying past but he is always there. I think Harry needs to get away from the cold. He deserves a holiday.”

Harry was unaware the school had nominated him until Mrs Cooney told him about his win. Harry says, “I was so surprised when I found out what the school had done for me and I feel very honoured. It means a great deal to me, it’s as good as winning the lottery.”