During his years as a lollipop patrol man, Tom Redwood was knocked down and grabbed countless children out of the path of oncoming cars.

Last year, he was even withdrawn from the Millers Road junction in Brighton for a time because it was so dangerous.

Now, after 17 years of seeing children safely to school, he has decided to call it a day at the age of 73.

Parents and children paid tribute to the popular lollipop man on his final day yesterday.

Mother Tracy Pengilly said: "Tom is the highlight of my kids' morning, they think the world of him.

"He is so good with the children, and will do anything for them."

She added: "My daughter Laura, who is eight, asked Tom to go and see the school play she was in and, when he turned up, she was so chuffed."

"Laura was crying this morning because she doesn't want him to go. She is going to make him a card to say goodbye."

However, everyone has not always been so complimentary. During his years working across 28 sites in Brighton and Hove, Tom has received a lot of stick from motorists.

As well as having to dodge cars that refuse to stop, he admits that he "gets called all sorts of things". But despite his age, he does not let drivers get the better of him.

Tom said: "The other day one driver gave me such a smirk as he tried to mow me down, that I hit his new car with the end of my stick. I felt like putting it through his windscreen."

He is well able to stand his ground, and his knowledge and experience is valued.

Sam Scott, the council's community safety officer said: "Tom has been a model patrol man. His service has undoubtedly prevented many accidents."

She said: "We have drawn on Tom's experience in all areas. Since he has been here, there have been many improvements to the junction. He has been brilliant."

But the crossing still has its problems, namely with abusive drivers. This is something Tom feels very strongly about.

"He has no qualms about speaking out about the lack of action.

He said "We have had promises for sets of crossings and traffic lights, but we have had nothing.

"Even in the last week, we have had three near-misses, with cars refusing to stop."

On Tuesday, he has been invited to Stanford Junior School so pupils can say their final goodbyes.