Newsome lollipop lady Iris still going strong at 80

Jul 8 2009 By Katie Campling

Before hitting retirement age 20 years ago, Iris had worked at Huddersfield University as a housekeeper.

She started her career as a lollipop lady 11 years ago.

“I was bored at home and I am not one for hanging about doing nothing, so I decided I would try this.”

Pedestrians and cyclists today often complain about the lack of consideration from drivers.

But Iris insists she has never been nervous stepping into the road to stop traffic.

She said: “I have never been nervous about the traffic.

“They all stop for me and most people know me and wave when they come past. Even the local shop SK News give me cups of coffee.

“I think having a real person at a crossing is safer and much better.

“Some of the older children’s parents say they feel happier knowing I can see their children across the road when they are on their own.”

Iris, who has a son, daughter and three grandchildren, wants to keep working for as long as she is able.

But she is concerned about what will happen to her role when Stile Common Infant School and Stile Common Junior School eventually merge.

She said: “I need to wait and see. But I’d be lost if I couldn’t do this job. I think the mums and children would be upset too.”

Parent Kelly Smith uses the crossing with her son Ben, seven. She said: “Iris is always friendly and does a fantastic job.”