AN ANGLESEY road crossing patrol man is swapping his lollipop for his slippers.

Dave Moyle, 77, the lollipop man at Ysgol Y Graig, Llangefni, has taken early retirement after being on patrol duty for the past 10 years.

Dave, who lives with his wife Betty, at Parc Clai Coediog, Pentraeth, said: "Come rain or shine I was up and out making sure the children crossed the road and got to school safely.

"It is going to be a big change to my routine. It's quite sad.

The dad of two added:"I have absolutely loved my job. I am going to miss it very much. All the kids know me. I have seen lots of them grow up over the years.

"Through the Chronicle, I just wanted to say a big thank you to all the children, the mums, dads, teachers and school staff who I have got to know as friends over the years.

"I was ill for a couple of weeks, so I didn't get the chance to say a proper goodbye.

"I shall miss them all very much, including my pal Toby the cat, he used to come and see me every morning. I shall also miss all the chocolate the kids used to give me!

"But I am looking forward to putting my feet up, and enjoying my retirement, and spending time with Betty."

* A list of remaining school Anglesey County Council crossing patrols, which will go at the end of the summer school term, include:

Ysgol Llanfechell, Ysgol Llanerchymedd, Ysgol Caergeiliog, Ysgol Cybi (x 2), Ysgol Santes Fair, Ysgol Llanfawr and Ysgol Kingsland

A proposal to reduce school crossing patrol officers, to save £58,000, formed part of the council's recent budget consultation.

An Isle of Anglesey County Council spokesperson said: “Due to severe funding cuts in the highways budget over the past eight years, we have been gradually reducing school crossing patrols. They are not a mandatory provision.

“As part of investigating the impact of ending the remaining School Crossing Patrols on Anglesey, our officers have assessed the sites in line with guidance.

"None of the remaining school sites meet the criteria for a School Crossing Patrol or any formal crossing to be recommended, with the exception of Ysgol Kingsland. We are therefore investigating the possibility of a zebra crossing at this location and will also be investigating any other potential improvements required at the other sites.

“We are, of course, extremely grateful for the service our School Crossing Patrol attendants have given over the years.”