Tears as youngsters mourn lollipop lady

A LOLLIPOP lady who died after being knocked down by a bus carrying schoolchildren has been described today as "much-loved... with a heart of gold".

Audrey Williams, 79, was helping children to cross Hillfoot Road in Ayr when she was hit by the bus at around 8.55am on Thursday.

Her family said in a statement that she thoroughly enjoyed her job and "was always happiest in the company of children".

Mrs Williams, from Coylton, Ayr, South Ayrshire, was taken by ambulance to Ayr Hospital where she was treated in intensive care for a head injury.

Her family, believed to have been at her bedside when she died on Thursday night, described her as a very active woman in the local community who would be sorely missed.

They said she played cello in the Ayr & Prestwick, Strathspey and Reel Society for many years and was often seen walking her dog through the local countryside.

The 55-year-old driver of the bus and the pupils from nearby Queen Margaret Academy were unhurt.

Sheena Templeton, head-teacher of Forehill Primary, where the pupils on foot were heading, said yesterday: "I'm very saddened to hear our lovely lollipop lady, Audrey, has died. This is devastating news for the school community and our thoughts and sympathies are with her family and friends at this difficult time."

She added: "Support will be available as required to anyone affected by today's events."

Mrs Williams, who had been a school crossing patroller for around ten years, had walked from the east to west footpath on Hillfoot Road with the children as they made their way to Forehill Primary. As she turned to cross back to the east footpath, she was struck by the bus. Strathclyde Police said no arrests had been made in connection with the incident and appealed for information.

Sergeant Stevie White said: "We know that the children were being helped across Hillfoot Road to get to Forehill Primary, which is in nearby Caledonia Road, and thankfully no children were on the road at the time. A report will be sent to the procurator fiscal."