Vale school crossing patrols successes celebrated

A man, described as ‘never losing his patience or smile’, has been named as the winner of the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s School Crossing Patrol of the Year.

Stephen William Crabb, who patrols Barry’s High Street and Sant Baruc schools, was presented with his award at the annual ceremony, which recognises the hard work and dedication of school crossing patrols in the Vale, making him the first man to win the award in three years.

He was presented with his award by Rob Thomas, the council’s head of planning and transportation, who highlighted how Stephen had endured countless distractions over the past year due to the demolition and rebuilding of a nearby church hall, all the while continuing his duty in an exemplary matter.

On picking up the award, Stephen said: “It’s nice to have recognition for our work. We work outside in all weather conditions and we greatly appreciate it when drivers are polite and patient.”

Winner Stepehn Crabb with Rob Thomas

Area winners were as follows:

Barry East (covering Cadoxton, Holton, Palmerston, Colcot and Jenner areas) - Jean Hatter. Jean has spent a great deal of time over the past year covering Court Road and Holton Road amongst others and always makes a great impression wherever she’s asked to go.

Barry West (covering Romilly, Gladstone, High Street, Trinity Street, Buttrills and Tynewydd areas) - Joy Strangward. Joy was given the award for working at arguably one of the busiest crossings in the Vale, and serving Romilly Primary School for nearly nine years.

Eastern Vale (Sully, Dinas Powys and Penarth area) - Jane Haines. Jane is pro-active both inside and outside Fairfield Primary and has been at her post on Wordsworth Avenue, Penarth, for seven and a half years.

Western Vale (Rhoose, St Athan, Llantwit Major and Cowbridge areas) - Alex Daw. Alex is a previous award-winner and a lady who works tirelessly both inside and outside Llanilltud Fawr Primary School.

Guests were invited to view Barry Comprehensive pupil Ellis Watts’ winning entry for the South Wales area annual Drink-Drive Multimedia Competition, followed by a chance to battle for victory in an interactive road safety quiz.

John Rogers, road safety officer, said: “Well done and thank you to all our winners, and to all the school crossing patrols throughout the Vale. It’s great to see so many people coming together and all working hard in promoting road safety throughout the Vale.”

All the Winners. From Left to Right: John Rogers, Alex Daw, Jane Haines, Stephen Crabb, Joy Strangward & Jean Hatter with Rob Thomas.