A SHORTAGE of 'lollipop' men and women means the safety of schoolchildren across Preston and South Ribble is being put at risk, according to Lancashire's crossing patrol chief.

Now the county council, which employs school crossing patrols across the county, is appealing for people to come forward to fill vacancies in Preston, Bamber Bridge, Walton-le-Dale, and Penwortham.

Lancashire School Crossing Patrol Service manager Ken Speak said: "We desperately need to fill these vacancies, as it is the safety of the children could potentially be at risk."

He added: "Our 'lollipop' people are highly valued by the local community.

"They are there in all weathers and they find the job very rewarding.

"But in some areas we are finding it incredibly difficult to get anyone to come forward."

Val Nowland, who crosses children outside St Anthony's Primary School, in Cadley Causeway, Preston, has been doing the job for 24 years.

She said: "I started the job when my youngest daughter started school because I wanted to have the same holidays as my children.

"There are no qualifications for the job, you just have to like people and have good eye sight, patience and common sense.

"My children are grown up now but I love the job so much I couldn't imagine doing anything else."

Local vacancies are at Collins Road, Whitefield Meadow, Bamber Bridge; Liverpool Road -- outside the police station -- Penwortham; Manchester Road, with its junctions in Frenchwood Avenue and Larkhill Road, Preston; and Hennel Lane, Walton-le-Dale.

To help call Mr Speak on 01772 646810 or visit the website www.serving.lancashire.gov.uk for information.