PUPILS and parents have joined together to thank a dedicated Kidderminster lollipop lady for helping them get to school safely for nearly 30 years.

Joyce Perry, 68, has retired after 29 years manning the busy Birmingham Road crossing, helping generations of pupils from local schools to cross the road safely.

Mrs Perry was presented with cards and gifts by local families at Offmore Primary School to say thank you for her years of service.

Victoria Evans, who has three children at Offmore Primary, said: “Mrs Perry has not only been a fixture on our journey to school, but for many pupils and parents over the past 30 years.

"We wanted to show our appreciation for so many dedicated years of service, as she has helped hundreds of children safely cross the road, and always has a smile come rain or shine.

“The lollipop ladies and men are vital for helping our children get to school safely, particularly across busy roads, so we would also like to say thank you to them all for their selfless work.”

Mrs Perry said she will miss the children most of all.

She told The Shuttle: "My next door neighbour used to be a lollipop lady and asked if I would be interested and I said it was a good idea.

"When I went to the interview and got the job, my son had just died and I wasn't going to take it but my friends said it would be good for me to get out of the house. It did help.

"Some of the children that were here when I started are now bringing their own children to school, which is nice.

"I'm glad I'll get an extra hour in bed but I'll miss seeing the children in the afternoons.

"I wasn't expecting any gifts so that was a nice surprise."