Children have waved goodbye to the adored lollipop lady who has served Long Ditton Infant and Nursery School for almost 27 years.


Margaret Lyle, 69, started at the school in 1985 and saw her own three children go through the school.


On her last day on Friday, July 20, parents and children took time to thank her and handed her flowers and cards to show their appreciation.


Mrs Lyle, a grandmother of two, said: “I’ve really enjoyed doing it, but my body is telling me I’ve had enough now.


“The early mornings can be difficult, but now I’ll be able to enjoy some lie-ins and I’m quite a good sleeper.


“The kids always brighten your day. Some of them run up and give hugs when they see me and a smile comes up on their face.


“It’s so nice to come to work and hear their cheerful voices saying ‘good morning Mrs Lyle’.”


Mother Suzie Richardson, whose two children attend Long Ditton, remembers Mrs Lyle from her own days at the school.


She said: “She’s been a big part of this community for years and she’s done a fantastic job.”


Deputy headteacher Sharon Emmett also paid tribute to Mrs Lyle and the fact she was always cheerful whatever the weather, with a broad smile on her face.


But she also warned that they had still not found a replacement for September.


Mrs Emmett said: “We are worried. It’s a very busy thoroughfare. We teach the children road safety, but they are so vulnerable and always so keen to get to school and through the gates.


“We want someone with a nice sunny disposition, that’s cheerful and good with the kids – we want another Mrs Lyle really.”