Jim Robson, who for the last 10 years has been helping youngsters from three Gateshead schools across a busy main road in Whickham, has suddenly found himself the subject of a Facebook page singing the praises of ‘The Waving Lollipop Man of Whickham’.

And its clearly not just local kids who are his fans. So far, the Facebook page set up in his honour has attracted more than 1,200 followers and more are adding their names every day!

His sudden fame is due as much to his friendship with the kids and parents he helps across the road as to his custom of giving a cheery wave to every passing motorist – hence his ‘Waving Lollipop Man of Whickham’ nickname.

Among the comments posted to the ‘Waving Lollipop Man of Whickham’ Facebook page by his many fans are:

• “This guy brightens my day by waiving every time we drive past and I don’t even know him,”
• “Jim is amazing, and he remembers every child’s name who he crosses over the road!”
• “Ahh I love him!!, what a star!! More people should take a tip from him and WAVE I say!!”

Now, fans are campaigning on Jim’s behalf for him to receive some form of award or official recognition from Gateshead Council for his work in helping to cheer everyone up.

Councillor John McElroy, Gateshead’s Cabinet member for Transport, says: “School crossing patrols are an important part of their community – but I think Jim is probably the first to become part of the cyber-community!

“He is clearly bringing a great deal of cheer to his local area – and anyone unlucky enough to have to drive in the rush hour will no doubt really appreciate his cheery wave!

“I’m sure that any request for the Council to recognise his outstanding contribution to cheering people up will be happily considered – and supported.”

Jim is flattered but rather surprised by all the attention his cheerful demeanour has attracted.

“I don’t have a computer myself,” he admitted. “But I’ve been able to take a quick look at Facebook at the local library.”

“Its brilliant that so many people like what I do, but I don’t think its anything special - I just love being with people, and the kids and parents are great. I sometimes get asked if I ever have any trouble with the older kids, but I think if you treat them with respect then you’ll get respect back. That’s what I’ve found.

“My waving to people actually started about nine and half years ago when a little girl complained to me that I hadn’t waved to her. So now I wave to everyone, and everyone seems happy!

“I’m not sure I deserve an award, I just love doing my job. But I hope all of this encourages other people to think about becoming a school crossing patrol. I love it, its a great job.”

Nick Clennett, Head of Transport and Highways for Gateshead Council, says: “Jim is one of the best adverts for becoming a school crossing patrol we could have.

“He loves meeting the kids, and they clearly love him, but he’s also appreciated by the whole community. Jim provides an object lesson for us all by proving that you only get out of life what you put into it.”

Gateshead Council is currently considering nominating Jim for a number of awards, including a national “Lollipop Person of the Year” award.

Jim’s fans can leave messages on his Facebook page at www.facebook.com