Braunton 'lolly' patrol is top of the pops

A NORTH Devon lollipop lady has become the first person to receive an emerald award for 35 years service at Devon County Council s school crossing patrol long service awards. Mary Penfold, school crossing patrol at Braunton Caen Primary, received the

A NORTH Devon lollipop lady has become the first person to receive an "emerald award" for 35 years' service at Devon County Council's school crossing patrol long service awards.

Mary Penfold, school crossing patrol at Braunton Caen Primary, received the special award from Devon County Council vice chairman Trevor Pennington at a ceremony in Exeter earlier today (Wednesday).

Two other North Devon lollipop ladies received awards for 30 years and 25 years service, among 26 patrols, while two administrators were also recognised for their role in helping youngsters to cross the road safely. Between them they have 276 years of experience.

Councillor Pennington said: "Devon's school crossing patrols deserve this recognition on our roll of honour. The number of years served by the patrols is testament to their loyalty and dedication and I would like to congratulate each and everyone one of them for their sterling efforts throughout the school year."

North Devon award winners: emerald award (35 years) Mary Penfold, Braunton Caen Primary; sapphire award (30 years) Jean Daniel, Appledore Community Primary; platinum award (25 years) Yasmin Perryman, Our Lady's Catholic Primary / Ashleigh C of E Primary, Barnstaple; silver award (10 years) Eric Freeman and Yvonne Freeman Ilfracombe C of E Junior; bronze award (5 years) John Martin Kingsacre Primary, Braunton; Retirement Award: Eric Freeman, Ilfracombe C of E Junior.