A BENFLEET lollipop lady was surprised with gifts as she retired after 22 years of service.

Lesley Mathers, 64, of Benfleet, is regarded by many as a pillar in the community, having worked for more than 20 years as a lollipop lady and midday assistant for Woodham Ley Primary School, in Rushbottom Lane, Benfleet.

The devoted lollipop lady has had to hang up her high-vis jacket due to health reasons.

She will be greatly missed on the school runs by parents and children alike, but will still continue her role as one of the school’s dinner ladies for as long as she feels able to.

The children of Woodham Ley Primary worked hard to make cards and bring in gifts with which they surprised Mrs Mathers on Friday, her last day.

Mrs Mathers said: “I have loved my 22 years being a lollipop lady and will greatly miss greeting the children in the morning and seeing their lovely smiley faces, but I have had to finally hang up my lollipop stick due to health reasons.

“I was overwhelmed with my wonderful gifts this morning and was completely unaware of the surprise presentation that had been planned until I was escorted to the playground and greeted by all the children and staff.

“Thankfully I will still be able to see the children as I will be continuing with my midday assistant duties for a little while longer.”

Dave Walton, headteacher of Woodham Ley Primary School, thanked her for her service.

He said: “The children at Woodham Ley Primary School got together today to say a fond farewell to Mrs Mathers, who retired as our school crossing patrol officer today.

“Mrs Mathers has been our lollipop lady for more than 22 years, helping the children young and old in all weathers to safely cross the road.

“She was presented today with a special cake and flowers and the children all wrote messages to her in a specially made book.

“She always has a smile on her face and will be sorely missed by everyone who uses the crossing.

“Mrs Mathers will still continue her role as midday assistant.”