Parents pay tribute to popular lollipop man John
Parents have paid tribute to a Paisley lollipop man who has hung up his stick after 10 years.
John Foley spent a decade shepherding pupils across the road to Bushes Primary.
He has finished his final patrol and is looking forward to retirement.
Families queued up to pay tribute to the former fireman on social media.
Marion Rossi told how he added so much to school life.
She said:“Such a gem of a man – a true gentleman.
“He’s always got time for us parents, as well as our children.
“Former pupils still come to see John and he never forgets a name.
“Enjoy your retirement, John. “We will miss you.” John took up the crossing beat outside the school in 2009.
He applied for the post after taking early retirement from the fire service after almost two decades.
Gillian Cassidy insisted the lollipop man will leave a lasting impression.
She said: You will be greatly missed, John.
“Both my girls have great memories of you.
“Enjoy spending time with your family.”
Dad-of-three John says he loved working with the children and meeting their families.
He volunteered his talents as school handy man, established a playground garden and played between the sticks for beat the goalie at fetes.
Parents admitted they shed a tear following news of his departure.
Violet Wilkinson joked: “You’re not allowed to leave, John.
“We are all going to pin you to the gates.”
John’s commitment saw him bag the title of Lollipop Person of the Year for both Scotland and the UK.
Ash Brook says she will miss meeting him in the morning.
She said:“Happy retirement, John.
“I have enjoyed waving to you on my commute to work over the years.
“Many happy years ahead to you.”
John has revealed he will use the downtime to take wife Kathy on holiday.
He will also spend more time with his six grandchildren.
Jen Lawn says John leaves big shoes to fill.
She said:“A sad day for Bushes Primary School.
“John is one of the best and will be greatly missed by everyone.”
Bushes Primary headmaster Craig McCrorie paid tribute to a man who“remembered every pupil’s name”and“always greeted them with a friendly smile.”
Alex Arrol echoed the well-wishes.
He said:“A hard act to follow – enjoy your retirement, John.”