AN urgent appeal has been launched to recruit lollipop men and women.
County Durham is heading for a crossing patrol crisis because one in five of its 247 patrols is currently vacant.
"I've never known so many vacancies before,'' said Hugh Stephenson, of the countycouncil's education service.
"At the moment about 50 crossing patrols are vacant either because people haven't applied for the job or because of long term ill health.
"We're fast reaching crisis point in some areas."
Worst affected areas are Peterlee, Horden, Blackhall, Sedgefield, Shotton, Wheatley Hill, Trimdon Village, Newton Aycliffe, Bishop Auckland, Durham, Sherburn Village, Stanley, Consett, Witton Gilbert, Chester-le-Street, Fence Houses, Edmondsley and Langley Park.
Patrols get paid training, receive £5.60 an hour, a holiday retainer and uniform.
Anyone interested should call 0191-383 3926.
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