A lollipop man - and Thurrock's oldest employee - is bidding a fond farewell to Grays schoolchildren after 22 years of helping them cross the road.

Faithful eighty-seven-year-old Bill Evans has worked outside the St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Primary School in all weathers since 1996.

Mr Evans took questions from a assembly of four year olds on his last day before waving goodbye, including: “Why do you wear such bright colours?” and “Do you get angry at mums and dads in cars that don’t stop when you say so?”

The school crossing patrol officer also spoke about his most memorable day after the assembly, remembering when an eight year old boy chased him before school.

Mr Evans said: “The boy said to me – ‘I’m really glad I’ve seen you today! You always have the biggest smile.’"

He added: "Well – that made my day; it makes it all really worthwhile.”

Corporate Director of Environment and Place, Steve Cox said: “Bill is a well-loved and respected member of the school and local community. He is also Thurrock Council’s oldest employee.

“He has devoted a substantial number of years to ensuring Thurrock’s youngest people are not only arriving to school safely, but also entering school with a big smile.”

He added: “We wish him the best of luck for his retirement.”