Lollipop men and women keep our children safe in so many different ways.

Every time they see kids safely across a busy road, they’re teaching them a valuable lesson in road safety that continues to protect even when the lollipop lady isn’t around.

They do even more, by setting an example in community values, courtesy and respect for others.

As in Patrick’s case, too, they show youngsters and the rest of us the contribution that older people continue to make to society.

If the council goes ahead with these cuts, they’ll be throwing away some of Birmingham’ most loyal and popular community servants.

That’s why the Birmingham Mail wants them to think again.