THERE were tears in the eyes of many who attended the retirement presentation to lollipop lady Mary Whitaker.

Mary has been school crossing patrol officer at Heasandford County Primary, Burnley, for 14 years.

She has an even longer connection with the school which was attended by her children and one of her grandchildren.

School secretary Sue Harvey commented: "She has been a good friend to the school and to the children and will be sadly missed."

All the classes at the school made cards for her retirement presentation at the morning assembly and many of the children gave her a special thank you hug.

A bouquet and cheque were presented to Mrs Whitaker by acting head Carol Lombard.