AN 82-year-old lollipop man has been recognised for his efforts to keep schoolchildren safe on the borough's roads.

Ted Feathers has shepherded youngsters across the street outside Churchfields Junior and Infants Schools in South Woodford for more than 16 years.

The popular pensioner, of Maldon Walk, Woodford Green, was awarded the Safer Communities Extra Commitment Award by Redbridge Council last night (Thursday) in recognition of his hard work and commitment down the years.

Mr Feathers, a great-grandfather of three, took up the position to keep busy after retiring as a delivery driver - and said he has enjoyed every minute.

He said: "This is the best job in the world.

"I love everything about my job and I would recommend it to anyone.

"All the children and their parents are marvellous.

"It’s a wonderful feeling when I hear children as young as 18 months calling out my name and waving."

Mr Feathers also keeps himself busy by helping to judge painting and drawing competitions at the schools' fetes, and has a large collection of 'thank you' paintings and drawings given to him by grateful youngsters.

His wife Olive, said she "couldn't be prouder" of her husband's achievement.

Churchfields mum, Karen Hawkins, who nominated Ted for the award said: "Ted is always very compassionate and at the moment is extra vigilant as construction works are in progress so there is a lot more traffic.

"He keeps the road safe and the children are always pleased to see him and listen intently to everything he says."

A council spokesman said: "During the past 16 years Ted has made Churchfields a safer and happier place.

"He knows all the children and their families by name and also remembers all children that have left the school but still cross the road with him to have a chat and catch up.

"Always going that extra mile Ted makes sure that drivers know where they are going, and that any visitors to the area are directed swiftly and cheerfully to their chosen destination."