Woman named district's Lollipop Idol

MARY Thomas has worked on the school crossing in all weathers for more than 20 years.

Now thanks to the votes of 10-year-old Domanic Moseley and others Mary Thomas has been crowned this year’s Kirklees Lollipop Idol.

Domanic, a pupil at Christ Church Woodhouse Infant and Junior School in Deighton, Huddersfield, where Mrs Thomas works, said she risked her life to help the children cross safely.

He said: “Mary is always stood in bad weather and every Christmas she gives us cards. When you are sad she will give you a hug and tell you jokes.

“Mary risks her life for the children. There are many rude people who never stop and run children over and that is why we want Mary to win.”

Last night Mrs Thomas said she loved being a lollipop lady.

She said: “I read Domanic’s nomination and it brought a lump to my throat, thinking that he had taken the trouble to think about all the different parts of my job and why he thought I deserved to win. He is such a lovely lad and I can’t thank him and all the children enough for being so kind to me.

“I started because my son went to the local school and there was no lollipop lady. I just thought I would do it until he left to go to big school, but I love the job so much that I just had to carry on. My lad is 29 now!

“It was lovely to think that the children put so much effort into nominating me. When my boss told me I had won I was in shock. I couldn’t find any words to describe how I felt – I’ve never won anything in my life before.”

Kirklees Council’s Lollipop Idol competition attracted over 500 nominations from right across Kirklees – and more than 50 were for Mrs Thomas.

Last winter, the service received many plaudits as patrols battle to work during the most severe weather for 30 years.

Coun David Sheard, cabinet member for regeneration, environment and transport, said: “These special people carry out well over half a million crossings every year, even in rain, hail, sleet or snow.

“This competition was a great way to raise awareness of their valuable work and to show them just how much they are appreciated.

“By making walking to and from school safer, lollipop men and women also help to promote healthy and sustainable travel, cutting down the number of cars on our roads and reducing congestion and pollution.”