'I've loved my rewarding job as a lollipop lady'

3 days ago

Paul BurnellNorth West

News image — Margie McDonald says she will miss the children's smiley faces

Sefton Council Margie is holding a stop sign and is dressed in full high visibility yellow school crossing patrol uniform. She stands on a pavement near a row of parked cars outside a school gates. — Margie McDonald says she will miss the children's smiley faces

Tributes have been paid to a school "lollipop lady" who has retired after nearly 20 years keeping children safe crossing the road.

Margaret McDonald - known to children, teachers, and parents as Margie - has retired from her role as a school crossing patrol near English Martyrs Primary School, in Litherland, Sefton, where she has worked since 2007.

She said: "I've loved every minute. Some people look down on the job but they don't know how rewarding it is," adding she would miss the children's "lovely smiley faces".

Sefton councillor Peter Harvey, who oversees the crossing service, said Margie's story was "a shining example of the incredible work our school crossing patrols do every day".

Harvey added: "Margie's dedication and warmth have made a lasting impression on me and her community.

"I've seen first-hand the affection she's earned from the children and teachers at English Martyrs."

He added: "I hope Margie's legacy inspires others to consider joining the School Crossing Service.

"It's a role that means you're a friendly face helping children start and finish their day safely, while making a real difference and leaving a lasting memory of care in your community."

Sefton Park Margie McDonald in white hoodie and black ski pants sits down with a special plaque and flowers presented by staff and students at English Martyrs School Litherland. — Children who were helped by Margie McDonald presented her with a plaque and flowers

Margie's life took a romantic turn in 2020, when she reconnected with her high school sweetheart, Kevin, during lockdown.

Kevin returned from Australia to Liverpool in 2021 and, inspired by Margie, joined the school crossing patrol service himself.

He was later diagnosed with a serious illness, and Margie is retiring to care for him full-time.

Sefton Council added Margie had helped generations of children and families get to school safely and "her presence became a reassuring part of daily life, and her dedication to the role has left a lasting legacy".

It said she always went the extra mile to support her community, from staying late for school trips or giving road safety talks, she built lifelong relationships with children, parents, and school staff.

Her sister, Kathy Nelson, also served in the school crossing service.

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