Dozens of Essex schools are in need of new lollipop men and women.

Essex County Council is launching a recruitment drive to fill 30 vacancies at established crossings.

Earlier this year, the authority scrapped proposals to stop providing patrols at zebra crossings in the county.

Colchester schools in need of new patrol people include Old Heath Primary School, Cherry Tree Primary School and St George’s New Town Infant and Junior School.

There are also vacancies at Tiptree Heath Primary School and Milldene Primary School, Wivenhoe.

Rodney Bass, county councillor for highways, said: “School crossing patrol officers have a very special place in local communities and people who do the job find it very fulfilling."

A consultation, launched in March, could have seen 50 lollipop men and women across Essex lose their jobs in an attempt to cut costs.

But Essex County Council decided against making cuts after schools and parents voiced their opposition.

The closing date for applications is October 7.

For more information, email School.CrossingPatrol@essex.gov.uk or visit workingforessex.com