School crossing patroller Rachel still going strong after 30 years on the road

An award-winning lollipop lady has marked an incredible 30 years of helping children across the road on their daily trip to school.
Rachel BryceRachel Bryce
Rachel Bryce

Rachel Bryce (68) took on her school crossing patroller role on Waterside Road, Kirkintilloch, on November 14, 1983.

She explained: “My kids were eight and 14 and I wasn’t working.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“The lollipop lady sometimes didn’t turn up and, as I lived next to the crossing, I would go out and help the children across.

“When the position came up my husband Andrew, who worked at Kirkintilloch Police Station, said I should just go for it.

“I never thought I’d be here four years later, never mind 30 years.”

Over the decades Rachel has become a massive part of the school communities of Gartconner and St Agatha’s primaries.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Along the way she’s won a number of awards, including the ‘Golden Lollipop’ for best crossing patroller and the East Dunbartonshire Provost’s Award.

She’s even mixed with royalty - having been invited to the Queen’s Garden Party twice.

And Rachel, who has two children and five granchildren, has vowed to carry on for years to come.

She said: “I love doing it. The children are so good and well behaved.

“We’re always sharing jokes and funny stories.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“To me, if you treat kids with respect then they give you respect back.”

The long-serving crossing patroller added: “I really love the boys and girls - they’re all like my grandchildren.”

* Have you got a story, picture or comment? E-mail [email protected]

Alternatively you can call the newsdesk 0141 775 0040, find us on Facebook or visit us on Twitter

Or you can log in below and have you say on the site...

Related topics: