SCHOOL caretakers will not be allowed to "double up" as lollipop patrols in Bolton.

The idea has been given the thumbs down by highways chiefs.

They have decided that it is not a feasible option because the two jobs could not be combined under existing contracts.

But they will advertise for the lollipop patrol jobs in schools and, if someone is interested, a new contract would be offered.

Councillors had put forward the idea in a bid to solve a school crossing patrol recruitment crisis.

But a report presented to highways sub committee councillors said the duties could overlap.

Councillors are concerned that one reason for difficulty in recruiting staff is that people fear losing benefits taking on part-time work.

They also lose out during school holidays, when they are not paid.

Now council chiefs are set to write to the DSS calling for a change of benefit rules.

Liberal Democrat leader Cllr Mrs Barbara Ronson said: "For a woman with a school aged child, this may be the only type of job she can do."

Tory deputy leader Cllr John Walsh suggested that Bolton should join with other local councils and fight for a rule change.

He said: "We cannot be alone with this problem."

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