A SHORTAGE of lollipop men and women has left a local authority in a sticky situation.

With the start of the new school term fast approaching, Darlington Borough Council needs more crossing patrol people.

There are 44 school crossings in the town, but there are still vacancies at Grange Road, Abbey Road and West Auckland Road.

Yesterday, children from the council's own nursery, Kids and Co, in the Town Hall, donned their own lollipop outfits to encourage new recruits.

But Denise Caley, the council's assistant road safety officer, said time was running out and the situation was becoming urgent.

Recruits must be fit and under 75, rate of pay is £4.97 per hour in term time, with half pay retainer during school holidays.

Anyone interested in the work can get further information from Denise Caley on (01325) 388783.