Not only but also.

Readers will have no doubt seen the Wairarapa News item on David Kershaw’s being awarded the NZ Order of Merit in recognition of his services to the community and business in the South Wairarapa. We join in congratulating David on his well earned award.

The item listed the likes of St John Ambulance and Martinborough District Ambulance Trust, Volunteer Fire Brigade, Annual Blood day, Toast Martinborough, The Community Patrol and Lions all in which he has been deeply involved. These along with directorships in Palliser Vineyard and Foodstuffs Ltd.

However along with these quantifiable works should be added the time David gives as the ‘public’s ear’. His office is constantly visited by people wanting advice, make suggestions, to float ideas (some wacky others not), or express their anger or frustration at some situation. And there’s nobody better than David to smooth ruffled feathers. Diverse clubs and organisations turn up seeking sponsorships or donations, and all receive.

Mayor Staples commented that ‘David is cheekily referred to as the Mayor of Martinborough’. David IS the (de facto) Mayor of Martinborough.

Even with all the above there is still one very important item which has been missed. The fact that six years ago David was the founder of the Martinborough Star we all now enjoy. And he continues to be a key member of the team which produces Martinborough’s own newspaper. This is a commitment of considerable time and effort each month (how quickly they come around!). This surely deserves an award of its own.