A Plymouth community champion who goes out of his way to help a neighbour is one of the winners of our Christmas Kindness competition.
Larry Jones, 69, was nominated by his next-door neighbour Ros after they were experiencing a difficult time.
After Ros’ husband, Andrew, was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year, Larry stepped in to support the family.
Larry was named one of the winners of our Christmas Kindness competition which was launched to celebrate acts of kindness by our residents across the South West.
Larry said: “When Andrew got taken ill, it was touch and go for a while and Ros was very upset, so we just did everything we could. It’s the kind of thing I would hope someone would do for us if we ever needed it.
“He’s been unwell, and she has long-term disability issues. But they’re just lovely people and of course, we try and help people when we can.
“We thought we might lose him, to be honest, but he has made a remarkable comeback. He even went out and cut his own grass the other day and he was proud of that and rightfully so! He could barely take two steps eight or nine months ago.”
Larry and his wife, Christine, moved from London to be nearer their children around eight years ago and have since moved into a LiveWest sheltered scheme in Plymouth.
Having chatted to their neighbours over the fence, they got to know each other better and soon became friends.
Larry said: “It’s good to have people you can rely on. If we could help someone we would, as it doesn’t cost anything.
“Even though we’re both coming up to 70 we’re still quite active. Some of the people here are not so mobile or capable, so why not help them out? There are a lot of pleasant people around here, but we also feel it’s nice to just be nice.”
Larry, who works and is still very active, visits the couple regularly to cut and manage their garden, shop for them, and do bits to help make their day easier. He also popped over and assisted Ros following a fall.
They really enjoy the community they live in and are pleased to help out when they can.
Larry added: “When we came down here from London, we just found people spoke to you and thought this is marvellous. We looked at other places in the South West to relocate to but when we found this area, we just loved it, it’s a beautiful place.
“It’s near to the town, countryside, and beach so what more could you ask for?”
Larry appreciates Ros nominating him despite having no idea about her intentions.
Larry said: “Ros is a wonderful baker and when she bakes there will be a cake that comes over or a pie will come through the door, so we know they’re grateful and they appreciate what we do, and they like to show it in that way – not that they have to.
“It’s great to win but it’s also nice that someone thinks enough of you to mention it and that’s enough really.
“It’s the kind of thing you hope most people would do for most people. But it’s a nice thank you to get it.”