By Tim Binnall
A British crossing guard says he has been told to stop high-fiving kids when they pass him by after drivers complained that he was delaying traffic. According to a local media report, the dispiriting mandate was handed down to Neil Cotton, who helps youngsters at an elementary school in the community of Howden. The crossing guard, or lollipop man as they are delightfully called in Britain, lamented that he has been forced to retire his 'signature move' of high-fiving students because it "upsets some drivers having to wait another ten seconds."
As one might imagine, the bizarre ban has not gone over well with some in the community. "I have support from a lot of locals," the crossing guard revealed, "their kids all love a high five." His assertion was seemingly confirmed by social media posts from irritated residents who lambasted the "absurd" decision. "It puts a smile on the kids' faces. My son does it all the time," said one parent, "but now he gets upset because he's not allowed to do it."
With many coming to the defense of Cotton's whimsical style, the local authority that oversees lollipop men was forced to respond to the furor. Calling such workers "pillars of the community," a spokesperson for East Riding of Yorkshire Council seemingly walked back the high five ban without outright giving it the proverbial thumbs up. "In this particular case," they said, "one of our officers spoke with this crossing patrol and simply reminded them of the need not to have distractions while children are crossing." It is uncertain whether or not this means Cotton is free to high five again or if resuming such fun will result in another slap on the wrist from his supervisors.