A POPULAR lollipop man was given a tearful send off yesterday by the school whose pupils he has helped protect for more than a decade.

Derek Cook, 77, is set to retire from his job at Penllwyn Primary School in Blackwood after 13 years. During that time, he has become a cult figure among staff, parents, and pupils alike, with his trademark ‘high fives’ and infectious personality.

A special assembly took place yesterday morning where poems were read out, songs were sung, and gifts were presented to Mr Cook as the school prepared for life after the popular figure.

The former miner and postman from Cefn Fforest said: “I am a very, very lucky man to have worked for so long. This was the best job of all.”