YOUNGSTERS joined school crossing patrols from throughout Sunderland to remember a well-loved lollipop lady yesterday.

More than 100 schoolchildren took part in a 30-minute walk through the city in memory of Sue Wright, who died in March.

Also involved were Mrs Wright's husband, Vince, teachers, ward councillors and road safety personnel.

Mrs Wright, who lived at South Bents, South Tyneside, died aged 53 after battling with cancer for two years.

She served as lollipop lady at the junction of Tunstall Road and Tunstall Park roundabout for seven years, helping children from St Aidan's, St Mary's RC Primary, Southmoor, Hill View Junior, and Sunderland High schools across the road.

Sunderland City Council's principal road safety officer, Amelia Forrester, said: "Sue was a lovely lady and the St Aidan's pupils absolutely adored her.

"The boys had the greatest regard and respect for her and I think that was because Sue always had time for them and knew them by name.

"She always had a smile - even motorists had respect for her, and she will be sorely missed by everyone who came into contact with her."

Yesterday's walk, which started from St Aidan's School, was organised to help launch Walk to School Week 2002.