Final crossing for popular lollipop lady Barbara

A popular lollipop lady has helped schoolchildren cross the road for the final time today.

Barbara Gould is retiring after looking after youngsters across Middleton for 34 years.

Wishing Barbara a happy retirement, Cllr Dylan Williams, Rochdale Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Facilities, shared on Facebook: “I had the pleasure of visiting much-loved lollipop lady/ school crossing patrol officer Barbara Gould, who retires today after 34 years serving our local community since 1992.

“Over that time, Barbara has served St Michael’s Primary School / St Thomas More, Alkrington Primary, Middleton Technology School and St Peter’s Primary School in Middleton, keeping lots of children and parents safe crossing the road.

“I’m 28 years old and I remember Barbara helping me cross the road when I went to St Michael’s Primary School.

“Well done Barbara for your 34 years of service to our local community and I hope you have the best retirement!”

Barbara said: “I’ve enjoyed my job tremendously. It’s the joy of getting up and knowing who I will be seeing. The children always have a smile and they speak to me and share their problems. More recently, I’ve had the pleasure of crossing the children of people I crossed when they were at school.”

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Also wishing Barbara a happy retirement, Patricia Locke shared: “Happy retirement Barbara. Thank you for keeping the children safe when crossing the road.”

Berni Moynihan said: “It must have been her when I used to drive up Townley Street and Kirkway on the way to Alkrington Moss Primary with my boys. They are 33 and 35 now,. Happy healthy retirement Barbara ❤️❤️❤️”

Hayley Courtney added: “Happy Retirement! Thanks for always giving a wave to my daughter on the school bus (the highlight of her morning) she will be gutted! All the best 🩷”

Lauraine Garner said: “Happy retirement Barbara, and thanks for looking after all those children xx 😘”

Carolyn Caz Ray said: “Happy retirement Barbara. Memories of you from when my son Craig started nursery school back in 1994 then my other children after that … you have a special place in Alkrington history. Thank you! xxxx”

Mary Walsh said: “Happy Retirement Barbara thanks for keeping children safe for so many years. Enjoy your time 🥳”

Helen Burton added: “Thank you Barbara for getting the local children safely across the roads … will miss waving to you … happy retirement 🎉🎉”

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