Long serving Lollipop Lady commended by Town Council

A popular lollipop lady who has been getting children to school safely since 1973 attended a special award presentation and theatre show on Friday [27 March] to celebrate over 40 years length of service, the longest in East Sussex.

Coral Whyman, 67, who has been a crossing patrol officer outside White House School for 42 years, said she has no plans to stop as she loves her job.

She was honoured for her dedication by the Mayor of Hailsham, Councillor Jo Bentley, who attended a special ceremony and light luncheon at the school, presenting Mrs Whyman with a shield.

Among those who attended the presentation alongside the Mayor and school teachers, staff and pupils were Wealden Member of Parliament the Rt Hon Charles Hendry and his wife Sallie.

Representatives from Sussex Police and Hailsham Rotary Club also attended, both presenting donations to raise funds to cover the annual costs of Mrs Whyman’s continued employment, ensuring children can safely cross the road outside their school.

After the presentation, the entire school with lollipop lady Coral Whyman and guests attended a live pantomime performance of Robin Hood at Hailsham Pavilion, organised by the Friends of Whitehouse School. The event was staged by a professional theatre company and included audience involvement and participation.

Coral Whyman was delighted to receive her awards and be invited by teaching staff and pupils to the pantomime performance. She said: “It’s so rewarding to have recognition for our work. We work outside in all weather conditions performing a very important service and greatly appreciate it when drivers are polite and patient!”

Town Clerk John Harrison said:

“Since School Crossing Patrols were officially introduced some fifty or more years ago, traffic on our streets has increased to considerable levels and the job of the lollipop person has increased in importance as a result, because they protect our schoolchildren in an ever more hazardous environment.”

“Congratulations to Coral on this wonderful achievement and for her sterling work! She deserves all the praise she is getting. Over 40 years of overseeing the safety of children is quite an achivement and a really important contribution to the community life of Hailsham. I’m really pleased that her commitment to that role has been recognised.”