A MAN who was at the forefront of the creation of one of the UK's largest trade unions has died aged 87.

Jim Connelly of Mona Street, West Park – who was awarded a British Empire Medal for his community work 27 years ago – died on January 7 at Whiston Hospital.

The granddad-of-four was a steward and branch secretary for the National Union for Public Employees (NUPE), known today as Unison for more than 40 years and had around 3000 blue collar workers on his books.

Jim had also worked for St Helens Council for around 50 years as a gardener in the grounds maintenance section where he was rarely seen without his collar and tie, despite the job.

The British Empire Medal is awarded for admirable civil or military service.

Mike Swift, Unison branch secretary, said: “Jim was at the forefront of the creation of Unison in 1993, and anyone who knew him will acknowledge that he was everything good about the trade union movement.

“Such a modest man, he will be sadly missed by his colleagues both within the St Helens branch and also in the North West region, where he had many friends.

“We will struggle to see the likes of Jim again.

“His commitment and energy did not stop upon his retirement from the council, as he became the retired members officer, representing the thousands of retired employees that needed assistance in any matters, work related or otherwise.”

Brendan Farrell, head of human resources at St Helens Council, who remembers Jim receiving his British Empire Medal, added: “Jim was a warm and endearing gentleman who could always be seen with a smile on his face.

“He’s a St Helens legend who’ll be sadly missed, they certainly don’t make them like Jim anymore.

“When it came to his trade union duties, he was as tough as old boots during negotiations, and wouldn’t let anything get past him, which I greatly respected.

“Even on receiving his British Empire Medal he believed it was awarded to him on behalf of the union rather than him personally, which said a lot about his character.”