WHITCHURCH Primary School this week issued an appeal in the hope someone will step forward soon to ensure their pupils get across the road safely on one of the area's busiest roads.

Devon County Council is anxious to fill the post of school crossing patrol person as soon as possible, now the school term has just begun.

The post became available following the death of Tim Beasley, who served as the popular 'lollipop' man at the school for more than eight years.

Headteacher Angela O'Shea-Warman told the Times: 'Road safety is so important, so many children need to cross Whitchurch Road, which is a very busy one.

'We desperately need someone, man or woman, as we have not had someone in the post since May.

'The people we have had in the job in the past past, like Tim, have been excellent and became very much part of our school community.

'They have taught children to not to just step into the road, to look left and right and become more aware of road safety.'

The school wants to encourage children to walk to school, as it was good for their health and good for the environment.

Andrew Eagles, the county's school crossing patrol manager said: 'What we are looking for is someone who is committed, likes children and can be relied upon to ensure their safety across the roads.

'It may appeal to those people are are already retired and looking to supplement their income or even mothers with children of their own who would like a job to suit their hours and who can commit to times required.'

'Training will be given and no previous experience is necessary.

The hours for the post are from 8.30am to 9am on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and between 8am and 9am on Wednesday, also between 3.15pm to 3.45pm weekdays. The pay is £6.08 per hour with 14 weeks paid holiday.

There is another vacancy for a reserve school crossing patrol person to fill in as holiday or sickness cover for Whitchurch School and at the Callington Road school crossing in Tavistock.

If you would like to apply for either post call Mr Eagles on 01392 382247.