A much-loved lollipop lady who has seen "generations and generations" safely to and from school completed her final crossing last week, after more than 30 years in the job.
Suzanne Ingham has been the school crossing patrol officer for Padiham Green C of E Primary School since 1994, but her final shift came on Friday, July 17.
Mrs Ingham said she was looking forward to a well-earned retirement but would miss being the start and end of the children's school day.
"I've seen a lot of children come and go, and children of their own are coming now, and even grandchildren. Generations and generations," she said.
"I've had a lot of fun with the kids and the parents, and I've really enjoyed it.
"My friend did the patrol before me, and she was retiring. I'd just had my daughter, Gemma, and was just looking for a part-time job, and this came up.
"I had to go to the police station on Station Road to be interviewed, and I got it straight away.
"The job has meant a lot to me. It's got me out, I've met people, the kids have been lovely. I'm the start and end of their school day, and it makes you feel wanted and loved. I get pleases and thank yous, hugs and high fives from the children.
"I'm looking forward to retirement, but I'm going to miss it."
Acting headteacher Mrs McLoughlin described Mrs Ingham as an important part of the school community and thanked her for her long and dedicated service.
"Many people will know Mrs Ingham as our wonderful lollipop lady, helping generations of children and families cross the road safely each day," she said.
"But her contribution to Padiham Green has been so much more than that.
"Her role has never simply been about standing at the roadside; it has always been about building relationships, showing kindness and making people feel welcome.
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"Mrs Ingham has spent 32 years greeting children with a smile, often being one of the first faces they would see in the morning and one of the last before heading home.
"She has been part of our school community as a parent, a friend to many, a valued member of the PTA, a school volunteer, and a school governor.
"Her commitment to our school has extended far beyond the school games.
"Many of our children will remember not only having her help them safely across the road but also spending time with them in school and on trips.
"She has always given her time generously and has shown genuine care and interest in the lives of our children.
"We wish you a happy and well-deserved retirement. Her contribution will not be forgotten."
While Mrs Ingham will be missed on the morning and afternoon patrol, she does not plan on leaving the school altogether and is already looking forward to volunteering in classrooms after the summer holidays.
"I won't be a stranger," she said.
"They've asked if I can help with a few things in school when they need it, so I'll be popping in now and then."
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