MEMBERS of the North Berwick community have called on a town stalwart to receive official recognition for his contribution to town life.

Ian Watson is chairman of North Berwick Youth Project and a member of the town’s community council, where he has also previously served as chairman during his 31 years of service.

He has also been a mainstay of the town’s Christmas lights committee since 1973.

Now residents, posting online, are calling for his hard work to be recognised.

Jacquie Turner said Mr Watson was “one of our town’s stalwarts” and highlighted some of the other roles he carried out.

Julie Graham described him as a “great guy” while Alan Hunter said Mr Watson has “probably worked harder behind the scenes helping things work in the town than anyone I know”.

David Sibbald even called for the 67-year-old to receive an award from the Queen.

Mr Watson, however, told the Courier it was not about receiving awards.

He said: “I first got involved [with the lights] because they needed an electrician and that was my line of work.

“It is nice [to be recognised] but it’s not why you do it – I would’ve done it anyway.

“I have had awards before – the Rotary club gave me an award a few years ago, but it’s not really about that.

“I do it because I feel I’ve a duty to do it.”

After 44 years of ensuring the town’s Christmas lights were in full working order, Mr Watson harbours plans to pass on the baton. He will, though, see out a 45th year.

“I’ll do next year and then I’ll probably step down because that’ll be 45 years and I think that’s enough,” he said.

“It’s had its ups and downs but it’s all good fun.”