School crossing patrols take up their 'lollipops' in Hemel Hempstead after weeks of lockdown

Hertfordshire school crossing patrols returned to work after primary schools re-opened for nursery, reception, year one and year six pupils.

After weeks of isolation due to Covid-19, more than 90 per cent of Hertfordshire primary schools have welcomed back children, supported by Hertfordshire County Council’s school crossing patrols.

Helping to escort pupils and parents safely across the roads, while ensuring social distancing during Covid-19, are 98 of the county’s crossings which are now fully operational.

Cabinet Member for Highways and Environment, Cllr Phil Bibby said: “It's great to see the return of our friendly and welcoming school crossing patrols, helping our pupils back to school in the safest and healthiest way possible during this phased re-opening.

“Our hardworking team of 142 patrols work individually, all year round in the snow, ice, rain, wind, summer heatwaves, and now during Covid-19, to keep people safe.

"They deserve our utmost respect.

“To assist patrols in safely returning to work during Covid-19, risk assessments have been completed and we identified some sites which required some temporary modifications.

"These will allow children to walk, scoot or cycle to school, whilst incorporating social distancing.”

To help facilitate social distancing, 13 patrol sites now have pavement markings and a number of light-controlled crossings have been re-phased.

Very soon, all 173 crossing sites will also have clear visual guidance, reminding people of distancing rules around schools.

Returning to work during the crisis has involved new ways of working but with the support from the county council, crossing patrols continue to keep our young people healthy, fit and safe while reducing congestion and pollution around schools.