Crossing patrol man Keith Hicks has been hailed an unsung hero for his years of service to Newington Community Primary in Ramsgate.
During his time at the school he has escorted generations of children and families across the busy Melbourne Avenue outside the main campus.
As pupils said a fond farewell to the popular figure, head teacher Hannah Tudor added her praise, saying: “Keith has been a real stalwart for our pupils day in and day out.
“He has been central to our safety measures for getting children to and from school safely. He is outside in all weathers and I know that the children will miss him dearly.
“He works morning and afternoon and is always ready with a smile and a quick word as he goes about his important role.
“His presence and support for our ongoing traffic awareness campaign ensures that some of our older children gain the independence that they need by making the crossing independently but with parents being able to have the added security of knowing that Keith will keep their children safe.”
Miss Tudor said that Keith had stayed on in the role longer than he intended but now feels it is time to move on.
She added: “It has left us with a problem. Keith stayed on in the hope that Kent County Council could find a replacement but they tell us that so far this has not been possible.
“This means we may well be without a crossing patrol when school resumes at the start of September.
“So I am appealing for anyone who would like to be considered for this important position to contact me at the school for further details.
“It will be a tough act to follow – Keith really is an unsung hero of the community and our children, families, staff and governors wish him the very best.”
Miss Tudor is aware of the need to maintain positive road safety outside the school. Last autumn she expressed her fears about motorists parking on pavements and grass verges in the area outside Newington. She said it posed a danger to children and families and urged drivers to be far more safety aware.
If you are interested in the crossing patrol role telephone 01843 593412 or email [email protected]
