Kilkenny woman Ann O’ Dea has been named the inaugural Woman’s Way ‘Local Hero’ for her service as lollipop lady at the crossing for St John of God girls’ primary school and St Patrick’s boys’ school in the city.
Described as a pillar of the community by parents and the school authority alike, Ms O’Dea has helped thousands of children to safely cross the road in her 17 years as local lollipop lady. It is no easy task, as she is dealing with almost 600 children daily as they cross one of Kilkenny’s busiest roads.
“It’s very satisfying working with the kids and with the parents and staff in both schools,” said Ms O’Dea.
“I love the kids, they’re wonderful.”
Ms O’ Dea was nominated by Nora Dooley, whose daughter Ann has safely crossed the road for six and a half years.
“She is very well thought of by everyone, the school authorities, the pupils, and the parents,” said Ms Dooley.
“She has a good word for everyone and is very caring and takes pride in her work.”
Not only will Ms O’Dea feature in the latest issue of Woman’s Way, she also receives a €100 voucher from Lidl in addition to the Lidl Cookbook Home Cooking.
Each month, one ‘Local Hero’ from around Ireland will be selected by Woman’s Way to acknowledge the unsung heroes who work tirelessly to make their communities a better place by giving a helping hand to neighbours, volunteering, or raising money for charity.
