AFTER a year-long absence from the roads of an Essex village, Skip the lollipop man has returned.
The children of St Mary's Primary School in Kelvedon have had to battle the traffic all by themselves since their popular lollipop man, 81-year-old John Papworth MBE, fell ill last year.
Mr Papworth, known to locals as Skip, was forced to hang up his reflective jacket to have a hip replacement.
"I was unable to walk on it and then the operation was delayed a number of times," said Skip. "But I still took part in the school's festivities during the year and the children said they missed me."
One year on, with a new hip, Skip has taken to the streets once again.
"I've been really looking forward to it," said Skip.
"I went up to the school the other day and all the children said 'oh Skip, you're coming back!' and even the parents were really happy."
In 2005 Skip was awarded an MBE for his services to the community in Kelvedon, the village in which he has lived all his life, and he is glad to be back on his feet.
Come rain or shine he will be back patrolling the roads and helping children cross them safely before and after school.
"I'm glad to be coming back but I've been hoping it doesn't rain. It would be just my luck it will pour all day long!
"It's hard work to start with but the bakers nearby usually bring a coffee to warm me up so I'm hopeful they will carry on.
"I'm sure everyone will be pleased to see me, apart from the cars. They will be like, 'oh blow, not him again!'"
Skip's return is welcomed by everyone in the village, but especially by the school.
Michael Walsh, head teacher of St Mary's, said: "I have just been up there on the crossing with him and we are absolutely delighted to see him back.
"Every car that has passed by has waved to him – he's a real pillar of our community."
