Ballymacash bids farewell to lollipop lady

She was the longest serving member of staff in Ballymacash Primary School and for many parents within the community she will have been the one who saw them safely across the road during their primary school days.

Rain, hail or shine she faithfully delivered pupils to and from Ballymacash Primary School safely across the road and she will be missed.

In many ways it was significant that the pupils of Ballymacash Primary School made a presentation to Mrs Dalzell last Friday as they dawned their PJs for Pudsey.

The reality is the children in that area are now in need of a safe means of crossing a road which averages 1,100 cars per hours during peak morning rush hour.

The SEELB is currently undertaking a survey to see if the crossing point meets the criteria necessary to receive the funding to replace Mrs Dalzell.

Commenting on the issue Ballymacash School Principal Stephen Gray said: “Mrs Dalzell is unique in the commitment she has shown right to the end of her career in caring for every child using her crossing.

“Given the Department of Education’s view that it’s a parents’ responsibility to get their child safely to school - I am not optimistic we will receive funding.

“To that end I have already been in touch with a local council representative and the PSNI raising my concerns. In the meantime I would encourage all parents to ensure their child’s safety in getting to school and ask commuters in all areas close to schools to exercise caution and vigilance on their journey to and from work.”

The school and the community wish Mrs Dalzell a long and happy retirement and as the children’s card states: ‘Myril - you’ll be missed!’