TWO men who help school children cross the road safely in Penarth and Dinas Powys have been awarded for their efforts.

David Letts won The William Maggs Challenge Trophy for his 12 years of service as a school crossing patrol at Dinas Powys Primary School at the recent Vale of Glamorgan school crossing patrol award presentation.

Nigel Bishop who is the school crossing patrol officer for Penarth, Dinas Powys and Sully was also awarded at the event at the Dock Offices in Barry on Friday, December 15.

Road safety officer, John Rogers, hosted a Christmas quiz and the presented awards along with cabinet member for neighbourhood services and transport Cllr Geoff Cox.

Mr Letts said: "I had no idea I was receiving this award, I am overwhelmed.

"I am 77 years-old and I love what I do, so I’m hoping to carry on working until I am 80. The children are lovely, and it’s a great job in all weathers, I don’t mind it."

The road safety charity, Brake, revealed that 46 per cent of children aged five – ten years –old and 38 per cent of children aged 11 – 16, walk to school ,meaning that more than 7,000 children across the Vale walk to school every day.

Cllr Cox said: "Thank you to the volunteers and the officers for all your hard work and for keeping the Vale children safe."