It was a moment they have all been waiting for.
Long time, dedicated volunteers of the Botany Crime Watch Patrol were pleased to see Matthew Wales, Andrew Simms principal dealer hand over the keys of a new Kia Sportage 2018 to Barry Watts, chairman Botany Crime Watch Patrol.
A lot of hard work over many years together with the sponsorship of Andrew Simms Botany has resulted in Botany Crime Watch Patrol being able to obtain a great new patrol car.
Also present at the special event held on Thursday at Andrew Simms Botany showroom was local councillor Sharon Stewart and Ormiston/Flat Bush Community Constable Nicholas Cockerell
“We can’t believe this has actually happened,” said Dick Marshall, who was chair of Botany Crime Watch Patrol for 13 years.
“This is big step change in vehicles as we have moved from second hand cars to a strong and highly visible patrol car.
“We are thrilled that Andrew Simms bought into this fantastic partnership. It wouldn’t have happened without Margaret’s hard work.”
Operations manager Margaret Westwood says that the two aging vehicles were expensive to run.
“We’ve had those vehicles for a long time and now this will be worry-free motoring for many years,” she said.
Councillor Sharon Stewart paid tribute to the late Councillor Dick Quax saying, “Dick has been a great supporter of Botany Crime Watch Patrol since its inception in the Manukau City Council days and was very passionate about it. He would be very happy today,” she said of her friend with whom she worked closely.
