Unsung Heroes: Church's gold plaque enough for a helper

Driving people to hospital and looking after church bookings keep Jim Watson busy. Photo / Paul Estcourt

Jim Watson's life has always been all about community.

The Papatoetoe pensioner - a former engineer, farmer and stock-branding contractor - has spent most of his 83 years helping others.

He had 40 years in the Boys Brigade and has been a lay preacher at the Wesley Methodist Church on Kolmar Rd for 50. He has run Bible classes, and now organises the renting of the church hall for private functions - a task that can be a balancing act.

"You can't be having noisy acts against quieter ones."

He has built homes for people through his role with Habitat for Humanity, and has opened his own home to those needing accommodation.

"I have been a Christian since I was 13 or 14 and I see the benefits in my own life. I want to instil the same things in the youth. While I am fit and well, it keeps me occupied."

But it's not all church work. Once a month, Mr Watson takes cancer patients from their homes - or hospices - for treatment at Middlemore Hospital.

While he's there, he may push patients in chairs or hospital beds to services in the chapel.

Mr Watson has been nominated for the Herald Unsung Heroes series by his friend Lisa Gunanayagam, who reckons he embodies all the attributes of a good neighbour.

The series recognises the work people do in their communities. Five nominees will be chosen at the end of the series to go on a P&O cruise.

"Jim is always willing to help no matter what the problem or how late the hour," Ms Gunanayagam said.

"His goodwill and strength as a vital part of our church have overflowed into the community as he continues to make a difference in whatever way he can."

Mr Watson had to be talked into participating in this story.

There is already a gold plaque - a tribute usually reserved for people who have died - in his honour at his church, and he is happy with that.