Pupils at a Helensburgh primary school marked a very important member of their community’s 80th birthday with a surprise celebration.

The children at John Logie Baird Primary School held a special assembly for their crossing patroller Bill who turned 80 last week.

The children sang songs for him, presented him with a cake, and gifted him a special present – a book filled with their drawings of Bill.

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Speaking to the children, Bill said: “Thank you very much indeed. I’ll still continue seeing you all home for as long as I can.

“I must go and get ready and see you all safely home.”

Head teacher Mrs Randall said: “We’re very grateful to you Bill, and we want to celebrate with you.”

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Bill has worked at John Logie Baird Primary School for 22 years and is well known to many people throughout the town.

Before taking up the job at the school, Bill was a police officer for 34 years, and worked around the UK – ending his career in Faslane.

During the assembly, Bill also awarded a certificate for manners, one of the school’s community values, to pupil Dylan.

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He said: “This person has quite a personality, is friendly, and does what they’re told and they’re very polite – at least to me!”

After the assembly, Bill went to the crossing point at Winston Road where he was greeted with a display of banners and balloons.

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