A KINROSS lollipop lady has admitted endangering the lives of children under her care after she turned up drunk for work.

Linda McLaughlin (51), of Mill Street, Kinross, was under the influence of alcohol as she helped children cross the road.

The incident occurred while McLaughlin was working as a school crossing controller in Station Road, adjacent to Kinross Primary School.

Yesterday she pleaded guilty to the charge that she culpably and recklessly carried out her duties while under the influence of alcohol.

She admitted that in doing so she had endangered herself, the children crossing and other road users.

The lollipop lady appeared at Perth Sheriff Court, where she had denied the charge at an earlier court appearance in October.

On the morning of June 2, McLaughlin was at her post when witnesses contacted the police after becoming concerned at her apparent intoxication.

Arriving at the crossing, officers found her to be under the influence and took over the crossing patrol.

Yesterday, the vice-chairwoman of Kinross Primary School Parent Teacher Association, Lorraine Herbert, said she had been saddened by the lollipop lady’s conduct.

“She really had no other choice other than to plead guilty as she was witnessed by a number of parents,” she said.

“It is a sad incident as she has done this job for quite a number of years.

“However, I think everyone would agree that you cannot leave your children in the charge of someone so irresponsible.”

It is understood that McLaughlin was suspended from her position prior to the conclusion of court proceedings.

Commenting yesterday, a spokesperson for Perth and Kinross Council said, “We can confirm that employee disciplinary procedures in relation to this matter are ongoing.

“These will now be concluded following the outcome of the court case.”

The case was adjourned for the preparation of reports.

McLaughlin also admitted a separate charge that on March 10, 2003 she failed to provide a specimen of breath for analysis.

She was disqualified from driving in the interim.

McLaughlin will be sentenced on both counts on February 11.