A RETIRED Christchurch volunteer has been awarded for his services to lifesaving at a national ceremony.

Roy Davison from Christchurch was given the prestigious Surf Life Saving GB Services to Lifesaving at the Heroes of the Surf event.

Mr Davison, from Christchurch Life Saving Club, was honoured in recognition of his significant services to the club and the Wessex Surf Life Saving GB region.

He was given his award by David Grose, chairman of Surf Life Saving GB, a charity with more than 5,000 volunteers helping to make beaches safer and more enjoyable.

Volunteers with the organisation have been providing lifeguard training and patrolling the coast for more than 55 years.

Mr Davison said: “Having reached retirement it means a lot to me to get recognition after all these years.

“What’s especially nice is to receive it as recognition from my peers and in front of so many great surf lifesaving volunteers.”