A SPECIAL CELEBRATION of Pembrokeshire’s longest-serving Lollipop Ladies was tinged with sadness, when it was learnt that one of the ladies had passed away.

Between them, Daisy Lambe, Sandrea Howells, Eirlys Twigg, Joyce Morgan and Linda Evans have given around 175 years service as School Crossing Patrol Ladies in their communities.

The special reception with Pembrokeshire County Council Chairman Tony Brinsden, marking this remarkable achievement was held recently, when it was learned that Daisy, who had given over 30 years service to the children and residents of Pembroke Dock has passed away following a short illness.

Daisy was a well-respected figure of the community and was recently presented with a Road Safety Wales Award.

Another lollipop lady praised was Sandrea Howells, also a previous recipient of the Road Safety Award, who has helped the school children of Holy name Catholic School in Fishguard for over 40 years.

Eirlys Twigg from Crymych is ever present at Ysgol Y Frenni. Not only does she work as a school crossing patrol lady, she combines that by working as a school administrator, lunchtime supervisor, cleaner, LSA and caretaker.

Recently retired Joyce Morgan, another who has received the Road Safety Award, was given an emotional assembly by the school children of Roch prior to breaking up for the school holidays.

In her 43 years working with the school she only ever had two weeks off sick and her starting salary was 49p an hour! She too has received a Road Safety Award for her dedication and service.

Also combing two roles with a school is Linda Evans of Goodwick. Before and after school she works as a lollipop lady and acts as a lunchtime supervisor too. She has given 30 years service to the children of the area.

Councillor Brinsden who knows a thing or two about long service after spending 31 years with the police before retiring, said their dedication was to be admired.

“To give over half your life helping others is nothing short of amazing. I’m sure I speak for thousands of people across the county in saying thank you.

“The dedication they have given to the children of Pembrokeshire, ensuring that they are safe in all sorts of weathers, is exceptional, and we wanted to honour their service to others.”