Citizens Awards presented

The volunteer work of 12 Waitaki residents was recognised yesterday when the Waitaki District Council presented its annual Citizens Awards at the Oamaru Opera House.

At the awards ceremony were (rear from left) Bob Watherston, Ken Bridge, Tony Brady, Waitaki Mayor Alex Familton (who chaired the ceremony), Murray Linwood, Graham Sullivan and Bill Lester and (front, from left) Elsie Owen, Verna Chambers, Colin Wheeler, Neil Paisley, Joan Simpson and Russell Payne. Each was formally nominated by a councillor.

Mr Familton said many people in the district had provided long and unselfish service to the community. "These people are often unknown outside the areas to which they have given such unstinting service. The Citizens Awards are a wonderful opportunity for us to honour these people."