Vanessa Hoare and Thelma Ingham retired in December, making their final crossings at the junction of Clairville Road and Marton Road in Middlesbrough, near St Joseph’s Primary School. Ms Ingham, who first joined as a casual in 1999, said: "I’ve loved every minute of it, seeing the children and their parents and having a chat. She said: "I’ve loved all of it, the kids and the parents, and this is a beautiful crossing. Lollipop lady Thelma Ingham in action on the Clairville Road/Marton Road junction (Image: Middlesbrough Council)Their dedication was praised by councillor Peter Gavigan, Middlesbrough Council’s executive member for environment and sustainability. For more information on the School Crossing Patrol service visit the Middlesbrough Council website.