Grimsby 'lollipop lady' Josie notches up 40 years of helping children to get to school safely

 

Josie: "The children are so funny - they make my day."

A DEDICATED Grimsby ‘lollipop lady’ is celebrating four decades of service to the community - specifically to its children and their parents. 

Josie Hides first put on a hi-vis jacket and picked up a lollipop stick when covering a shift for a friend back in 1983. 

Having never previously considered the role herself, her immediate love for the job soon flourished and she became a ‘lollipop lady’ shortly afterwards. 

Serving multiple schools across the borough, including Edward Heneage Primary Academy, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School and Welholme Academy, Josie is a welcome sight and local icon. 

For generations, families have looked out for Josie’s bright yellow jacket on their daily commute to and from school and have built a real connection with their local stalwart of road safety.

"I can’t believe it’s been over 40 years,” says Josie, a 'school crossing patrol officer' to use her posher title. "Seeing the kids every day and having banter with them and their parents makes it all worthwhile. 

"Honestly, the kids are just so funny. They make my day!"

Safe and secure - Josie in action