Council cut means less safety for schoolchildren
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A FORMER school crossing patrol officer is worried about the safety of local children following her redundancy.
Heather Scott from Pilmuir escorted pupils across the busy junction near St Catherines Road and the bridge on Orchard Road for the final time on Friday, June 28.
She said: "After 24 years as a lollipop lady there, I was very sad to leave that job. It was the happiest job I've ever had and lots of fun.
"I don't know how the kids will cross in front of the traffic there, unless drivers stop for them, but I can't see that happening. I just hope they stay safe!"
Heather was one of 29 school crossing patrol officers made redundant as a result of the 2019/2020 Moray Council Budget decision about the non-statutory service, which was that it could be cut to make vital savings.
A council spokesperson explained: "Parents are reminded that they are responsible for ensuring their child's safety on their whole journey to and from school."
Heather took the job more than two decades ago while her children were in primary school, which suited her available hours.
She said: "I enjoyed meeting people and getting to know the kids through the years. I saw some come back with their own eventually!
"Over 24 years I've seen the volume of traffic increase as new houses are built. I'm particularly worried about the kids I got to know so well when school re-starts."
