School Crossing Patrol Officer Carol Evans has hung up her high-viz jacket and her patrol sign for the final time and has retired after an amazing 35-year career at Pontrhondda Primary School.

Mrs Evans, 65, of Llwynypia, Rhondda, has helped generations of children safely across the road to and from school each day, in all kinds of weather, all year around. Married to Anthony for 47 years, she now plans to enjoy her retirement with her family, which includes her two children and three grandchildren.

Having worked as both a school lunchtime assistant as well as school crossing patrol, known to many as the ‘Lollipop Lady,’ Mrs Evans says she will miss all the staff, the children and their parents – many of whom she helped cross the road when they were once children themselves!

Councillor Joy Rosser, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Cabinet Member for Education and Inclusion Services,said:

“I would like to thank Carol for her amazing long service at Pontrhondda Primary School. I know everyone involved with the school is going to miss her greatly.

“On today’s busy roads, it takes special qualities to step out and stop traffic calmly, at the same time keeping the attention of the children until they have crossed the road safely, whatever the weather. We wish Carol Evans a very happy, healthy and well-deserved retirement.”

Carol Evans said:

“I have such wonderful memories of my time at Pontrhondda Primary School. It is going to leave a huge hole in my life, but I have enjoyed all of my time working there,” said Mrs Evans.

“I have absolutely loved it. Being the school crossing patrol officer meant the world to me, teaching young children how to cross the road carefully and safely and showing respect to motorists. These are skills they will hopefully carry with them for the rest of their lives”

On her last day at work, Mrs Evans received lots of gifts, cards and flowers from well-wishers, including many from grateful parents, who themselves were once escorted across the road safely by her during their time at Pontrhondda Primary.

Alyson James, Head at Pontrhondda Primary School, said:

“For three decades Carol has played a vital role in ensuring the children and parents at Pontrhondda Primary get to and from school safely, rain or shine.

“She has been a popular figure in the local community, greeting everyone with a guaranteed smile and a wave each day. Carol has loved her job and will be missed by us all. We wish her well and a happy, safe and long retirement.”