Councils across the UK are suffering from a recruitment crisis among the some of the most dedicated local workers – lollipop men and women.
Low pay, unusual hours, dangerous working conditions and taking stick from abusive drivers are all being blamed for a shortage of people willing to help children and adults cross the road on the way to school.
Councils around the country have launched recruitment drives targeting potential candidates with radio advertising, posters on buses, leaflet drops and notices in local shops.