School warden from Nuneaton in New Year honour

A 54-year-old school crossing warden from Warwickshire has been appointed MBE in the New Year Honours list.

Elizabeth Hollins, from Nuneaton, has been a school crossing warden for the past 16 years and has been appointed MBE for her services to education.

She started when her two children Susan and John, now 27 and 23, were at a first school in Gun Hill, Coventry.

Mrs Hollins is among six people honoured in the county including Andrew Parker, Deputy Chief Constable.

Mr Parker has been give the Queen's Police Medal.

Mrs Hollins, who previously worked in a shoe repair shop and then a fastening factory, said: "If you told me when I left school at 16 that I would be in the New Year Honours list, I wouldn't have believed you. I am so chuffed."

'Wrap up warm'

She said the role had never crossed her mind until the head teacher approached her about it.

She has since worked in different areas in Warwickshire.

"When it is bad weather I wrap up warm and think of what I will do in my holidays."

"I love meeting the children and their parents and I have a good rapport with them. It's nice watching them all growing up."

Mrs Hollins, who cares for her 91-year-old mother, is also involved with road safety schemes for schools.

"I will continue doing this as long as I have good health," she added.

Other recipients to be honoured included:

OBE

Professor Helen Higson, from Rugby, senior pro-vice-chancellor and professor of higher education learning and management at Aston University, for services to higher education.

Mrs Rehana Richens, consultant midwife and honorary lecturer at City University, Warwickshire, for services to nursing and midwifery.

MBE

Ms Olywn Ditchburn, from Coventry, programme director at Leamington and Warwick West children's centres, for services to families.

Dr Andrew Entwistle, from Leamington, member at universities/users teaching and research action partnership, for services to higher education.