They play an important role in making sure our children get to school safe, but lollipop men and women numbers in County Durham are dwindling.
Durham County Council currently has a number of vacancies being advertised, including in Tow Law, Newton Aycliffe, Consett, Spennymoor and Stanley.
Now, Liberal Democrat councillors Mark Wilkes, Mamie Simmons and Amanda Hopgood, who all represent Framwellgate and Newton Hall, are appealing for people to apply after all four positions became vacant in their wards.
Coun Wilkes said: “This is an essential and rewarding paid job for anyone with spare time on their hands. The council has found it difficult to fill these posts and we have had accidents and near misses in one area.”
One of the vacant posts is on Front Street in Framwellgate Moor where there have been a number of accidents recently, Coun Wilkes said.
The role would require someone to work on an as and when basis, during term-time only, according to the local authority's advert.
Successful applicants will receive full-training, uniform and a retainer payment will be paid during the school holidays.
Coun Hopgood said the posts would be ideal for someone who is retired or is able to work flexibly during the day.
She added: “You get to talk to so many people and help the local community too.
“We have been successful in finding people for two locations and hope they will start work soon. However we still have vacancies at Front St, Framwellgate Moor and Bek Rd in Newton Hall."
Coun Simmons said the council struggles to find people adding and is always looking for extra people to cover when others are absent.
She added: “As an ex-headteacher I know just how important road safety is for our children.
"We are also looking at how we can make other road safety improvements in Framwellgate Moor. This isn’t just for children but for the wider public too.”
The Lib Dem councillors say they are in negotiation with county council officers to try and get funding for a new crossing on Framwellgate Moor front street.
They met on site with council and police road safety officers, with issues raised also including dangerous parking and enforcement of unlawful parking on Front Street in Framwellgate Moor.
Vacancies can be discussed by calling 03000 268170 or 03000 268171. Full training is provided by the council.
