Most older people spend their retirement pottering around or putting their feet up – but pensioner Derek Lynch has little time for his pipe and slippers.

Instead Brighton and Hove’s oldest lollipop man stands around in all weathers helping young schoolchildren cross the road safely, even at the ripe old age of 84.

Mr Lynch only took up his job at Somerhill Junior School in Hove five years ago and was rewarded for his hard work at a heartwarming awards ceremony on Tuesday.

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After picking up his prize, former taxi driver Mr Lynch said: “My father was a lollipop man so I thought I’d have a go myself.

“I love the kids and I wouldn’t change my job for anything.

But I’m here for a long time yet – I’m not going anywhere.”

The first ever Brighton and Hove Older People’s Awards, in conjunction with Impact Initiatives and backed by Brighton and Hove City Council’s public health team, was held at the Grand hotel on Tuesday.

Audience members were treated to a slap-up high tea, followed by a raucous singalong led by a ukulele band.

Winners included Sylvia Wright, who was named the city’s Most Deserving Carer.

A dedicated carer for many years, Mrs Wright also gives regular conference presentations and supports new carers across Brighton and Hove.

She said: “I’m amazed at receiving this award and I’m accepting it on behalf of all carers.”

Other winners included natty dresser Patricia Watts, who picked up the Most Fabulous Award.

Dressed in a black silk frilled jacket and pearls, 83-year-old Mrs Watts said: “I’m proud to have won but all I’ve done is to outlive and outwit my competitors.

“If it weren’t for all the takers in the world, where would the givers be?”

Winner of the Biggest Contribution to the Community Award was Heather Hayes, who has served as a tenant rep and a carers’ representative in Hollingdean and Coldean for more than 20 years.

She said: “People often fall through the gaps so it’s important to stand up for those who might otherwise be hidden.”

The winners of the Biggest Contribution to Volunteering were Tracy Good and Pauline Rowland, who run a weekly lunch club for more than 30 people.

The most inspirational older person was Chris Colby, who took on the challenging role of head teacher at Cedar Centre special school at the age of 60.