Long service award for school crossing patrol

Buckinghamshire Council is celebrating the career of a ‘much-loved’ school crossing patroller (SCP), who has been helping children to cross the road safely for four and a half decades.

Last month Christine Walker was applauded for her dedication to the children of West Wycombe Primary School in a special assembly at the village school.

Christine is Buckinghamshire Council’s longest serving patrol officer. She first picked up her lollipop in 1978 when she took over the role from her own mother-in-law. Since then, Christine has helped guide thousands of children, parents and carers across the road to and from school, with a smile on her face, whatever the weather.

Christine’s dedication to her role received royal recognition in 2021 when she was awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM). Christine also attended the Queen’s Royal Garden Party in 2018, following her 40-year anniversary.

Christine said: “I love welcoming the children into school each day and have enjoyed watching them grow up and then bringing their own children and grandchildren along to the school.”