An ‘inspirational’ lollipop lady has seen her 42 years of exemplary service recognised by Bexley Council.
Yvonne Cocksedge, who started her vocation as a school crossing patrol in 1974, was selected as a special representative in the category of ‘Outstanding Service’ in the Council’s staff recognition scheme called ‘Stars’.
Yvonne, who was forced to retire through ill-health earlier this year, also won the Overall Winner’s Award for 2016.
Children from Slade Green Primary School and Haberdashers’ Aske’s Crayford Temple Grove (North) Academy turned out to congratulate their ‘Bexley Star’ (pictured) as she made her way to the awards event at Hall Place on 8 November.
Yvonne first became a School Crossing Patrol in Erith in June 1974 and later moved to Slade Green. She has helped thousands of children and their families cross the road safely during her 42 years of exemplary service. In recent years she has been helping the grandchildren of the children she helped when she first started her career.
Yvonne Cocksedge said: “This afternoon was such a lovely surprise. To see the children outside the school, near my lollipop site, waving their congratulations brought me to tears. I have loved every moment of being a lollipop lady. It is simply the best job in the world.”
Paul Moore, Bexley Council’s director of place, communities and infrastructure, said: “Yvonne is an inspiration to us all. She has given an enormous part of her life to ensuring the safety of Bexley children. She truly is a Bexley star and I want to thank her most sincerely for her contribution to her community.”
17 November 2016