AFTER about 14 years servicing Cobaki Village's people, justice of the peace Bill Lafferty is needed elsewhere.

That is why he is the Tweed Valley Justices Association's newest member.

Mr Lafferty said after more than a decade some Cobaki residents no longer required his services so he decided to offer himself through the association to Centro Tweed and Tweed City shopping centres on Tuesdays and Thursdays, respectively.

"There's quite a lot of people out there in the community who need a JP and don't know how to find one.

"It's about helping people who've got some forms to fill out but don't know exactly where to start.

"Or they might need a statutory declaration signed for superannuation or something.

"We can take away a bit of the worry."

He said another reason he joined the association was because it was closely linked to updated information and requirements placed on JPs.

"The association is kept up-to-date through the Governor General's office.

"I'm not notified of any changes, but they are."

When Mr Lafferty worked as a paramedic in Penrith his local MP Peter Anderson, was also the Police Minister, said JPs were needed and asked him if he was interested.

"A lot of people need one and I think my work over the years has been appreciated.

"And if I can't help them I can always direct them to the local court."

He also enjoys gardening and cooking for his local social club's gatherings of more than 100 people.

Justices of the peace are available for witnessing signatures at Centro Tweed Shopping Centre Tuesdays from 10am-2pm and at Tweed City Shopping Centre each Thursday from 10am-2pm and 5-7pm.

For more information phone secretary Donna Rostron on 0414 894 368.