Moorside Primary School's favourite lollipop man, Ray Bateson. Ray will be retiring in October this year unless he can have the age limit of 75 overturned.
To pupils at Moorside, Ray is a constant and much-loved part of their school life. Rain or shine, he gives them a hearty welcome and an enthusiastic goodbye as he guides them across the road at each end of their school day.
News spread fast that Ray will be retiring, and he was showered with gifts on the last day of school yesterday. But it was great to find him on his usual patch again this morning, helping another late-finishing school's pupils safely negotiate traffic on Bowerham Road. It was quieter than usual today without the Moorside kids, but Ray was greeted by nearly every passing motorist and pedestrian as we chatted. He collected another carefully-wrapped present and shared friendly words and waves with all those around him. Even his son swapped some breathless banter as he jogged past in the rain while Ray and I sheltered under a tree!
But don't take my word that Ray is the man I paint him to be. He was voted school crossing patrol of the year by all those who appreciate his efforts and respect him. The following extract is from the Lancashire government newsletter that announced Ray's award (also an article from the Lancaster Guardian with more detail about Ray here):
Lollipop man Ray Bateson of Moorside Primary School, Lancaster, won the award for school crossing patrol of the year. “He got so many nominations from the children and parents,” said one teacher at Moorside. “They all adore him because he’s so cheerful and chatty.” The pupils also wrote their own nominations explaining why they thought Ray should be the winner. One simply said: “We love him!”
Perfect title. I hope he can stay on if he wants to. It is such a thankless job in many instances. He seems to be a perfectly happy and content person. I really enjoyed this post.
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ha, what a cute photograph.
ReplyDeletePeople like him are well-remembered. Everyone has memories of those kind souls who figured into their childhoods. He looks like a nice man.
Every school needs a Ray the "lollipop man!" Think of the positive attitude and cheer, not to mention the traffic safety he brought to those kids! Bravo Ray - you will be missed!!
ReplyDeleteOh, he really does want to stay on Abe. He has even put some hope into his case being brought to the European level in an effort to overcome the insurance issues. Kitty and Leif, yes he is a nice man and will be missed. Thanks for the comments.
ReplyDeleteWhat an excellent profile to go along with that expressive face. Kudos to you both!
ReplyDeleteThere is a lovely fellow here like Ray, even crosses us adults over the road. Always unsung heros. That's a smashing image, infectious smile.
ReplyDeleteI hate it when people doing a good job are forced to retire. If they want to, that's fine. But if they don't, it's not right!
ReplyDeleteIt's a loss to a place when someone retires from serving.
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Retirement should not be based on one's age, especially if he is doing such a good job and is so well loved. This is a great post! I hope he gets to stay.
ReplyDeleteBuck, babooshka, YEGTG, Blogger, Lois - thanks. I hope Ray sees your comments!
ReplyDeleteRay is amazing, he knows every child and their parent and keeps his eye on any kids without parents. I truly believe our children and roads are safer with Ray in charge. PLEASE let him stay he really wants to. :-)
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