A COMMUNITY has reached its target after launching an urgent appeal to save its lollipop lady.

After it was announced that private funding for the Hatherden Church Of England Primary School lollipop lady would be cut, a community group banded together to raise money to save the role.

Natalie Jones, who has been in the position for the last 18 months, will now continue her role for at least another year as the target of £5,500 was achieved.

The group of fundraisers now plans to form a Lollipop Lady Committee this autumn to raise money to keep Natalie employed for future terms.

Nigel Luke, parent and chairman of the new committee said: “I’m happy to do it because Natalie is a committed and conscientious person. Nat knows all the kids names, it seemed an absolute pity to lose someone so keen just for the sake of money.

“It was a real heartwarming moment, a great little success story, a little community led project that came good.

“It was just one of those community moments where everything comes together, the school, church, parents and businesses.”

Donations were received from parents and members of the community, The Church Of England, Artspace Interior Design Ltd and Penton Park Brewery while Hampshire County Council was able to make a substantial donation with the help of Councillor Kirsty Locke, who has been involved in the project.

Nigel added: “Kirsty Locke is taking it on from council side, she’s absolutely top dollar. We’ve got some good players involved. Hopefully she might be able to raise awareness of how dangerous the road is.

Friends of Hatherden School Co-Chairs Cathy Vass, John Hardstaff, Katy Peters and Lucie Holland has thanked all those involved.

To find out more about this project, you can visit, hatherdenschool.co.uk/friends-of-hatherden-school-fohs/