Shanklin's Steve Shares Secret Life Of Lollipop Man

"Nothing feels better than the smiles, thank yous and waves received each morning and afternoon. It makes me feel very much part of a special community."

Like a lot of lollipop men/ladies — or school crossing patrol officer, if you will — Steve has a tight bond with his local community in Shanklin.

He spends his mornings and afternoons at a crossing outside St Blasius CE Primary Academy. 

As he strolls out into the middle of the road, traffic commanding sign in hand, helping people get from one side of the busy Brook Road to the other, Steve explains why he finds his job so rewarding.

"Over time I have gained much respect from the children, parents and road users alike.

"The messages and cards I have received at the end of term, Easter and Christmas make me realise just how much I am appreciated and it drives me on to be there for my community each day."

On a day like today when the weather is beautiful, it's easy to understand why he enjoys being out there, but Steve's no less positive when the traditional British cold and rain kick in - and that's been rather a lot recently. 

"I am wrapped up warm against the elements and just one smile makes it worthwhile. It brightens up the day — especially the windy and rainy ones."

Steve is in the unique position where he is seeing children across the road who are the children of the youngsters he first saw across the road years before — even some grandchildren.

"I was reminded of this by my line manager the other day - he kindly pointed out that I have been enjoying this experience every school day since 1997!"

Steve says being a school crossing patrol officer is not just about the safety of children, it is about the safety of all road users be it pedestrians or people using the highway for travelling.

"It’s also pleasing when I am out and about in my “civvies” that the children and their parents will acknowledge me and sometimes stop for a chat," he says. 

"If you like the outdoors, the idea of keeping your community safe and being fulfilled in your work, then becoming a school crossing patrol officer is the job for you."

The Isle of Wight needs its lollipop men and ladies. Not only are they a vital part of the Isle of Wight Council's road safety team but they're a reliable part of people's days.

If you would like to find out more about current crossing patrol vacancies, email [email protected] or call 823714.