Generous offer helps lollipop man

John Lott is looking forward to returning to work in September

A lollipop man from Kent is to have a much-needed operation thanks to the kindness of a stranger.

John Lott has been helping children across the road in Tunbridge Wells for five years but has been struggling with a knee problem since May.

The 74-year-old was spotted by passing motorist and manager of the private Nuffield Hospital, Simon Monkman, who offered him a free operation.

Mr Lott, who works at Claremont Primary School, said it was a generous offer.

"There are no real sufficient words - he wanted to do something for the community for the job that I do," the road crossing officer said.

Mr Monkman said: "He's the sort of guy who still, believe it or not, doffs his cap at passing motorists.

"A very popular figure - the children love him, they all know him by name. So how can you not help a guy like that?"

Mr Lott is due to have the operation shortly, and is hoping to be back at work when the school returns from the summer holidays in September.

"According to Mr Monkman, I'll be able to skip around like a 14-year-old... I think that might be a little exaggerated at 74," he said.