Civil Defence volunteer radio operator David Watson received a very special message this week.

He was recognised for 10 years of exemplary service by Ashburton Mayor Neil Brown and the Minister of Emergency Management Mark Mitchell.

David has been an outstanding member of Ashburton District Council’s emergency management team and has contributed his radio communications skills at many civil defence events, including storms and earthquakes.

His last event was the 2021 Canterbury floods – he was the sole radio operator on duty for the day shift throughout the event, a period of 10 days straight.

“On behalf of the entire community, I extend our gratitude and congratulations for 10 years of exemplary volunteer service,” Mayor Brown said. “We are incredibly lucky to have you as part of our civil defence team.”

At this week’s Council meeting, David was presented with a long service certificate from the National Emergency Management Agency, signed and endorsed by the Minister of Emergency Management.