A MUCH-loved 69-year-old lollipop man has quit his job because Bolton Council refused to allow him a two-week holiday with his sick wife.

Parents, children, shopkeepers, councillors and even school staff are so upset they have signed a 350-strong petition in an attempt to get the council to change its mind.

The stupid thing is, according to parents, that the council's decision will leave Moorgate Primary School in Tonge Moor without a lollipop man for two months.

And, the BEN can reveal, the council officer in charge of school crossing patrols, David Sutton, has just returned from a holiday himself -- taken during term time!

Len Ward -- or Lollipop Len as he's known to scores of youngsters -- was hanging up his lollipop stick today.

Len, of Larkfield Grove, applied for a two week leave of absence in June -- during term time -- to be with his wife, Doreen.

He is upset but says he's had no option because the council has forced his hand.

Justine Jackson, a parent governor and spokesman for the Save Our Len campaign, said: "It is the council being bloody minded and obstinate.

"Everyone connected with the school is right behind Len. He's a lovely bloke, always has a smile on his face and the children love him.

"Now the council is putting the lives of children at risk for the sake of allowing a fortnight's break.

"They are cutting their noses off to spite their faces.

"The parents themselves would have manned the crossing while Len was off for a fortnight. We've handed our petition in but the council just doesn't seem to listen."

Stuart Hodson, headteacher at Moorgate primary, said he couldn't comment but his main concern was for the safety of his pupils.

Councillor Frank White is also backing parents and is investigating the matter.

Len said: "I suppose they've got their rules but it seems very harsh.

"I've worked here for four years and I love the job and the people. My wife is in bad health and all I wanted was two weeks off."

Bolton Council states: "It is written in the contract for our school crossing patrols to work during school time."

The council has admitted it is unable to replace him, meaning pupils will be left to cross busy Ainsworth Lane without help.

A spokesman said: "It would cause severe disruption if everyone was allowed to take holidays when they wish. He has chosen to resign and we have advised the school it will be without cover while we make a temporary arrangement."