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At 91 years old, Reg Bown is preparing to make his final crossing as a lollipop man in Greater Manchester, concluding an impressive 28-year career dedicated to helping children cross the road safely. Reg’s journey began when he took on the role at the age of 60 at Wellfield Infant School in Sale. Although he retired briefly at 70, his commitment brought him back to duty at Sale High School, where he has been a familiar and friendly presence for over 17 years.
Reg’s decision to retire now comes after a long and fulfilling period of service, prompted by a bad back. Reflecting on his time working outside the school, he said, “I will miss the people. The people are the only thing that have kept me going to 91.” His dedication has created lasting connections with families in the community; many parents and children whom he described as “fantastic” have come to see Reg as a trusted and reliable figure on their daily route to school. On his last day, his wife Anne, who has worked alongside him as a lollipop lady for 26 years, will be on hand to offer support.
Having spent his entire life in Sale, Reg has rich memories of the town, including witnessing Sale Town Hall burn during World War Two from his bedroom window. Before his role in safeguarding children on the roads, Reg completed several years of national service in the Royal Air Force and later pursued a career in the printing industry. Retirement never meant slowing down for Reg, who embraced his lollipop duties as both a way to stay active and to engage with his community. “It gives me something to do,” he explained. “I have talked to a lot of people and had quite a bit of fun. I’m up at 06:00 – and what would I do otherwise? Stay in bed all day and do nothing? My mind would go blank.”
Reg’s final crossing will mark the end of a remarkable chapter in his life, one characterized by dedication and warmth. He expressed how much he will miss the role, saying, “I will miss the whole lot of it. It’s a smashing job.” Over the years, Reg has seen generations of children grow, recounting how “You lose the kids over the years, but then I get people coming up to me with prams to tell me that I was their lollipop man.” His legacy of care and community spirit will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on Sale’s residents for years to come
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