Never mind Will Young and Leona Lewis – the real idols are taking the spotlight.
The borough’s superstar lollipop patrol has been revealed as… Dennis Skett.
Dennis has been ‘on point’ at Mab’s Cross Primary School on Standishgate for nine years. And this week, he was judged by pupils, parents and friends as the man with star quality.
Denis, who is also a popular scout leader in Wigan as well, was stunned by his unexpected victory. He had no idea why council officers and photographers were gathering in school.
“This is a wonderful award,” he said, “I am very touched and thrilled to receive it and thank you all.”
He wins a weekend break and a glass trophy, as well as the title of Lollipop Idol for 2009, selected from the 125 who work for the council’s Metrofresh team. Five other patrols impressed the judges as well, and will receive special commendations.
Strategic manager Debbie Clarke says:
“Of course all our patrols are winners – they are valuable and well loved members of their communities. So we’ve made a fuss of them all by asking pupils to tell us about their own lollipop man or woman.”
Officers from the council’s highways team and Metrofresh were joined for the judging by Cllr David Molyneux, cabinet environment champion. Quality, as well as quantity of nominations were looked at, as was the patrols’ length of service and the size of schools they served.
Cllr Molyneux presented Dennis with his trophy and told the school assembly that Dennis was a shining example to them and an important part of the road safety work of the council.
And head teacher Susan Santus said:
“Everyone here is tremendously proud of Dennis, he is out in all weathers and is a friendly face for everyone coming to our school.”
Five year old Lydia from the school council added:
“We all like Dennis. He’s happy and a nice lollipop man for us.”
Although the council is not obliged to provide a patrol service, the team works to ensure all the major school crossing points are covered and are eager to welcome new recruits to their paid team. If you think you could be a candidate, perhaps for next year’s Idol, then call Metrofresh on 01942 705077
