A POPULAR Herefordshire lollipop lady is hanging up her hat after 25 years of service.

Elizabeth 'Liz' Fishpool started work as a lollipop lady for Gorsley Goffs Primary School in 1996 and has been a mainstay ever since.

After a quarter of a century, Liz has decided to enjoy her well-earned retirement as of the end of this school term, and Gorsley Goffs held a special assembly last week (Wednesday, December 15).

She was presented with a 25-year service badge and a bunch of flowers for her work in getting children and parents to and from school safely.

Liz works on a busy crossing, but she has been there without fail, rain or shine, week in and week out.

She has also volunteered at the school for several years, whether it be helping the children in the classroom, keeping staff supplied with milk, tea, and coffee, or helping to keep the school entrance safe by putting out parking pals, the child-like signs used to encourage parents to park considerately.

Councillor Ange Tyler, cabinet member for housing, regulatory services, and community safety, said: "Liz has been an incredibly popular figure at Gorsley Goffs over the years, and is always inundated with flowers and gifts, along with grateful thanks from children and parents."

All those years of service is a huge achievement, and Herefordshire council are delighted to help recognise Liz's valuable contribution to keeping children safe, and wish her a wonderful retirement, she said.

"People who work as crossing patrol officers are incredible individuals, who work tirelessly and in often very challenging conditions to help children and parents walk to and from school safely.

"As well as Liz, I would also like to offer a huge thank you to everybody who helps to deliver this priceless work."