IT'S hard to believe that Bolton's Lollipop men and women are to be recruited without vital police checks because of the lengthy procedure involved.

True, this is only temporary and they will not be allowed to work with children until clearance is given. Viewed in the light of recent enforced retirements of popular lollipop ladies like Mrs Mary Morales, though, it's easy to see why this decision is galling.

Apparently, although Town Hall chiefs are desperate to recruit new school crossing patrol staff, they would rather temporarily approve anybody than keep on someone aged over 70.

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