Garston stalwart Peter Naylor's long-standing service to his township has been acknowledged with a Community Service Award.

Naylor is well respected in the local area for the voluntary services he has given and continues to provide to individuals, community groups and the local Garston School.

He has tirelessly shared his skills, talents and valued knowledge through his involvement in the following:

• Foundation member of the Garston Volunteer Fire Brigade since 1972 until present. He is a life member of this service.
• Member of the Garston School Committee and board of trustees for 17 years. He continues to actively participate and contribute to school activities by offering practical assistance with maintenance of equipment (swimming pool supply delivery and water testing samples) and technical repairs requiring engineering.
• Assisted with the clearing of land and establishment of the Garston School native reserve as a beautification project to enhance Garston village’s roadside appeal and community pride.
• Member of the Garston Cemetery Trust since 1980.
• Served as a member of the Garston Hall Committee, acting as the chairman for 20 years.

His passion for, and expertise in, restoring vintage tractors, cars and stationary motors has benefited local projects through his significant contributions to celebrate local heritage, as evidenced through:

• The static display on the Railway Precinct in the Garston village centre to complement the picnic/playground area.
• The restoration of the railway jigger, which had been donated to the Garston Community Development Area subcommittee and displayed on the green.
• Construction of a seat to feature alongside the Russell Glendinning memorial.
• Information supplied for Garston village’s information kiosk.

Naylor's citation said he has always sought to make positive contributions to the Garston community, and that he is wholely deserving of a Community Service Award.

He was presented with the award, from the Northern Community Board and Southland District Council, by Mayor Gary Tong.