HE has collected case notes from all over the world and now a Gorleston GP is set to take on his latest overseas challenge.Dr David Watson will be using his medical expertise to help children in Africa following his retirement from the Central Surgery Practice.

HE has collected case notes from all over the world and now a Gorleston GP is set to take on his latest overseas challenge.

Dr David Watson will be using his medical expertise to help children in Africa following his retirement from the Central Surgery Practice.

After 34 years at the practice Dr Watson said farewell to his patients this week and is flying out to Uganda to work with the Christian charity Fields of Life Trust.

No stranger to globe trotting, Dr Watson has worked as far afield as Western Siberia, Bangladesh, Azerbaijan, Georgia, the Ivory Coast, Tunisia, Algeria, and the Gulf of Mexico.

During his career in the medical profession Dr Watson also visited North Sea oil rigs where he assessed and recommended improvements in medical care for oilfield workers.

He said: “I want to utilise my experience in Uganda looking at health education, sanitation, basic treatments and immun-isation and the recruitment and training of national staff.

“I also hope to involve local schools colleges and organ-isations with particular projects. I have already received great support from, friends and patients, Lynn Grove High, Yarmouth College, and several social groups and professional organisations in Gorleston.”

The Field of Life Trust relies on unpaid volunteers, highly skilled in their various spheres, with Dr Watson helping to provide medical care in schools and communities.

Dr Watson is also fundraising to build accommodation for orphans at the School of Sure Foundation.

He was inspired to work in Uganda after members of the African Children's Choir stayed at his Gorleston home while performing in the area.

“It is very challenging but I want to help to improve the health of children in Uganda,” said Dr Watson.

“Because of the conditions they live in people suffer from scabies, lice and worms. Malaria is a big killer and HIV, TB and meningitis are common.”

Dr Watson followed in his GP father David's footsteps into the medical profession and has two daughters, Vickie and Abigail with a first grandchild on the way. Between trips to Africa he will return to Gorleston to spend time on the golf course, fishing and walking the dog.

“I am very sad to be leaving I have got some lovely patients and have been blessed with my career,” said Dr Watson.

“I have been overwhelmed by the kind and moving words contained in cards and letters, personal gifts and donations to charity. I want to pass on a big thank-you.”