Tributes have poured in for a "beloved" lollipop man who dedicated himself to keeping children and families safe outside a County Durham school.
David McKenzie, who worked at Our Lady and St Thomas Catholic Primary School in Willington, died on October 3, prompting an outpouring of grief from pupils, parents, staff and the community.
The school shared the heartbreaking news online, describing David as a "bright, welcoming presence" who was dedicated to keeping children and families safe every day.
"Beloved" David McKenzie a lollipop man who dedicated himself to keeping children and families safe outside a Willington school. (Image: FACEBOOK)
Hundreds of people have since paid tribute online to the "lovely" man, describing him as having a "heart of gold".
One tribute said: "Lovely man, keeping our grandchildren safe, thank you. RIP."
Another added: "I'm so sorry to hear this, David was one of a kind with a heart of gold he will be missed more than words can say. Thinking of you all at this very heartbreaking time"
The school said David greeted people with "a warm smile and unconditional kindness" in all weather.
Our Lady and St Thomas Catholic Primary School in Willington (Image: GOOGLE)
People who knew David away from the school also paid tribute.
One person said: "I’m very sorry to hear this sad news about David he was a good man and I know this because I use to work with him at the Salvation Army in crook"
Another wrote: "Rest peacefully David, what a kind hearted lovely man you were, I will always remember you for your kindness, thinking of you all at this heartbreaking time"
A further tribute described David as a valued member of the Salvation Army church family in Crook.
It said: "So sorry to hear this news he was a valued member of our Church family at the Salvation Army in Crook and he will be greatly missed. Thinking and praying for the family at this sad time."
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The school said: "We are deeply saddened to share the passing of our beloved road crossing operative, David."
It added: "Thank you, David, for your unwavering service and for protecting our community. You will be profoundly missed by the students, parents and staff alike. Rest in peace."
The school sent its deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers to David’s family, friends and loved ones.