Maggie retires after 38 years
Friday April 4 marked the end of an era in Musselburgh when crossing patrol guide Maggie Watt hung up her 'lollipop' after an incredible 38 years in the role!
Maggie joined the then East Lothian District Council on 30 March 1987 and, over almost four decades with the authority, she has worked in Dunbar, Prestonpans and Tranent but most of her time has been in Musselburgh where she also lives.
'Maggie's Corner'
She will be a familiar face to many, particularly those who pass her at the crossing point at the town’s Dalrymple Loan. In fact, she’s so well known that her regular patch is affectionately known as ‘Maggie’s Corner’ by pedestrians and drivers alike!
She has played an important role in creating a safe environment for pedestrians and children travelling to and from school. By supporting safe crossings, East Lothian Council’s guides encourage more children to walk to school, promoting physical activity and reducing traffic congestion around schools.
Lie-ins and leisurely lunches
Maggie said while she will miss the pupils and their parents she was looking forward to lie-ins and leisurely lunches as well as being able to take holidays in term time.
“I’ve especially enjoyed watching the children grow up and eventually have their own kids," she said. However there will definitely upsides to retirement: “I won't miss having to go out in all kinds of weather—rain, sleet and snow," she laughs.
Nicola Marr, East Lothian Council’s School Crossing Guide Supervisor said:
“For nearly four decades, Maggie has been a constant presence, guiding children safely and warmly across the road, rain or shine, with an unwavering dedication. She’ll be much missed but she leaves with our best wishes."
Your chance to win!
A recent book and cake sale organised by Children's Services has raised over £502 for Ronald McDonald House Edinburgh!
If you're on the look out for some new summer reading material there are boxes of books remaining which are available in John Muir House (second floor)
A number of football teams are still for sale - they need to be sold to reveal the winner. Contact Rogan Higginbottom for details if you'd like to be in with a chance!
- Card 1: £1 per team and the winner will take home £25
- Card 2: £2 per team and the winner will take home £50
A raffle, which was drawn after the event, was won by Dawn Adams (pictured).
Rogan said: "Thanks to everyone who donated, baked or helped with the heavy lifting before during and after the event. We couldn't have done it without you! Special thanks to our chief fundraiser Dorothy Mannix."
Children's Services hold regular fundraising events throughout the year. Look out for future events in Inform.
Thank you! Celebrating staff compliments
Individuals, teams and departments across the council regularly receive compliments from residents, visitors and businesses. Here's a selection:
Family of local resident: Telecare Service. Thank you, we were so grateful for the comfort and reassurance of having the community alarm.
Local resident: Road services. Many thanks for fixing the holes in the pavement outside my house so promptly.
Local resident: Community Housing. I really appreciate that you were able to help me with my possessions when I moved house.
Family of local resident: Community response team. The quick action of the community response team getting help for my mum when she had a stroke possibly saved her life. Thank you all so much.
Local resident: Adult Wellbeing. Please pass on my thanks to the emergency care staff who assisted me in the early hours. They were very kind and helped me not feel embarrassed.
Local resident: Landscape and Countryside. Just writing to say well done indeed for the path cleansing and grass cutting at Wallyford! Omg what a difference sincere thanks to the team! Job well done!! Don't think that path has been done in a long time!
Please forward any compliments your service receives to Inform and we can include them in future issues