LOLLIPOP patrols in Bolton could soon be allowed to work until they are 70.

Council chiefs are set to raise the normal retirement age because of a staffing crisis.

They are desperate to stop staff leaving and are eager to take on new recruits.

But despite an extensive advertising campaign, they cannot find anyone to fill posts.

Cllr Peter Finch, chairman of Bolton's highways sub committee, said: "We are absolutely desperate at the moment.

"I think that if we do have people who are over 65 and are fit and want to carry on, then we should allow them to do this."

The BEN recently highlighted the case of Frank Coward who had to retire from St Simon and St Jude's School, Newport Road, Great Lever.

Since then, mums have been standing in as emergency lollipop ladies.

Today he said: "I think this is a superb idea. I would certainly be interested."

A report will now go to the council's personnel sub committee and if it is approved the new policy will come into force straight away.

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