A TOWN has come out in force to say farewell to their lollipop lady of 30 years.

Sharon Malcolm, who has worked as a lollipop lady on the corner of Chamberlayne Road, Eastleigh, for more than half her life, yesterday had her last day.

After years of crossing children travelling to the nearby Norwood Primary School and also local people going to work, Sharron has become well known to Eastleigh residents.

Yesterday, those residents as well as the Mayor of Eastleigh, Darshan Mann, were all in attendance to wish Sharon a happy retirement.

The lollipop lady, famous for wearing her high heels whilst at work, has been doing the job since 1990 and yesterday received gifts and cards.

One parent, said: "We will all miss Sharon, and wish her a happy retirement."

Now Sharon has left, she is looking forward to spending more time with her husband, and her grandson.

She said: "I'm going to miss the kids so much, I've had so many lovely presents and gifts and cards and money.

"It just goes to show how much people think of me.

"I had a big bouquet of flowers from the mayor and a local heroes award.

"It will be nice to not have to get up so early in the morning, and be out in all weathers."