Story: Muneebah Waheed
A local resident of Fir Vale, Shabana Shahid, contacted the Burngreave Messenger, wanting to acknowledge the work of their local lollipop lady. Valerie Hanson is still crossing children safely over the road in Fir Vale after 27 years. Shabana wanted to show her recognition and wanted the children in Fir Vale to show their appreciation to Valerie Hanson too. As Shabana said,
“Despite the bad weather, she’s always been there, and I just want to say thank you. I remember her being there when I was at school – it was Earl Marshal School back then – and now she’s crossing my kids over the road. There’s not enough recognition for her.”
Valerie spoke to the Messenger about her fond memories helping children cross the road safely for 27 years. “It was a friend of mine who first got me interested, although then there were no traffic lights and the road was much quieter”.
Valerie has to cope under pressure and help kids cross quickly and safely, especially when hearing the sirens of a roaring ambulance coming towards them. “There were a few close shaves, but none too serious.” The Messenger asked how the community has changed over the years.
“It was much quieter and the children were much politer then. Although the community is still really lovely and most of the children are polite. A ‘thank you’ doesn’t hurt!”
Valerie Hanson has put her own life at risk to help school children cross safely for 27 years and remains commited to her job on behalf of Fir Vale, the Messenger wants to say ‘Thank You!’.