A jolly crossing guard in Melrose has become popular around town as kids and adults alike anticipate his costumes for every holiday and occasion.
Bill Beardsley, who has been working for the Department of Conservation and Recreation for about five years crossing students outside Melrose Middle and High School, got into character as Santa Claus on Friday for early release to start winter break.
As snow began to fall at the corner of Fellsway and Melrose streets, Beardsley greeted students, posed for pictures with children, and cracked jokes in the crosswalk as he helped them safely get home. Two other crossing guards cheerfully joined him as Mrs. Claus and Rudolph…