SHE has been the ‘lollipop lady’ guiding children across the road to a Gosport school for 25 years.

Bridget Bathe has served the community as the school crossing patrol outside Leesland C of E Infant School for a quarter of a century. The school has presented Bridget with flowers, chocolate, wine and a sparkly sign to mark the anniversary.

In that time, she has seen some pupils grow up, have their own children and bring them to the school. 

She said: “Over the years the traffic has got busier, different to when I started. It’s the children that make it. They love me and I love them. It's the children that make it at the end of the day. The parents appreciate it too.

“You have got to be happy. If you have your problems you put them behind you.”

Bridget, 61, changed from being a nurse to take on the job in 1995 when her children were young, because the hours were more family-friendly. Her own grandchildren now attend the school.

“I’m very pleased I have reached the 25.” She said.“I want to go on another 25 if I can. I just can’t see myself retiring because I love it too much.”