LOLLIPOPS were out in force in Middlesbrough when a group of crossing wardens turned up at the Town Hall for a civic reception.

The usually unheralded workers were guests of honour for a reception to mark their contribution to school life.

Middlesbrough Council chairman, Javed Ismail, said: "These dedicated people are a reassuring sight for parents and turn out in all weathers to provide a safe crossing point to and from school."

There are currently 60 patrols working in the town including Dennis McCarthy who is in his seventies and Ellie Hannaford and Pat Knowles who have worked for 26 years and Marjorie Dixon who has clocked up 25 years service.

Anyone interested in becoming a lollipop person can contact Valerie Dodds, school crossing patrol supervisor on (01642) 728178.