A lollipop lady who served two schools for more than two decades and will be "sorely missed" has officially retired.

Gwen Robinson, who turned 85 in June, has been running crossing patrols outside St Margaret’s CofE Primary School and Parrenthorn High School on Heywood Road, both in Prestwich, for more than 20 years.

A large crowd of pupils from the primary school gathered outside on Monday, July 15 to say goodbye to the long-serving lollipop lady as she hung up her hi-vis for good.  

Children cheering at St Margaret's Children cheering at St Margaret's (Image: Newsquest)

Gwen said: “I’ve absolutely loved my time working here and will miss it.

“All of the children have been so polite and friendly over the years, especially the teenagers.

“I told myself that when I reach 85 I’ll retire, so the time is right.”

Gwen previously worked as a home carer for more than 30 years and her son, who is now in his 60s, is a former pupil at Parrenthorn High School.

Parrenthorn headteacher Chris Bell said: “Gwen has been there for our pupils every day and makes sure they get to and from school safely.

“The children adore her and we all appreciate everything she’s done during her time with us.”

Gwen was greeted with cheers as she walked up the road and was “completely stunned” by the surprise farewell. 

She added: “I thought I may get a quick round of applause in the school hall but wasn’t expecting anything like this.”

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St Margaret’s headteacher Hannah Whiteside said: “We’re so grateful to Gwen for helping keep our children and their families safe. She will be sorely missed.”

The children at St Margaret’s created handmade posters with individual well wishes and illustrations and the school fence was decorated with colourful balloons and bunting.

They held up their artwork by the school gates as Gwen arrived to say goodbye to teachers, parents and pupils from the two schools.

Mrs Sarah Ellison, a teaching assistant at the primary school added: “Gwen always greets the children with a smile each morning.

“She’s the first person they see at the school. They all know her and she knows each and every one of their names. We’ll all miss her.”