AS a school lollipop lady Fran Coles is used to marching into the middle of the road to stop traffic!

But, on Remembrance Sunday, Fran, of Victoria Street, Lostock Hall, stepped off the pavement for a different cause as Parade Marshal for the annual procession.

For years, Fran's husband Bernie has marshalled South Ribble Borough Council's civic parades and led the Remembrance Sunday procession from the Civic Centre, in West Paddock to the Cenotaph in Church Road, for a wreath laying ceremony in honour of the war dead. But this year, United Utilities mechanic Bernie had to spend time in hospital and was unable to fulfil his special role.

But, following a plea from the mayor's secretary, Lynda Mears, helpful Fran stepped into Bernie's shoes and saved the day! And, in contrast to her day job, she had to muster-up a bellowing big voice in order to shout instructions.

Fran, who has carried the Lostock Hall Royal British Legion Women's Section standard at parades throughout the borough, has only ever missed one South Ribble parade due to the pregnancy of her daughter, Bernadette.

Fran said: "I was somewhat surprised to be asked to act as Parade Marshal but it was Bernie who persuaded me that I was well qualified.

"I was a little nervous on the day but felt confident that things would run smoothly -- after all, I've watched Bernie for many years and was certainly well briefed."

Bernie, who was in the Scot's Guards for more than 10 years, added: "I was very disappointed that I couldn't do the job this year but my wife did very well."