MATTHEW Watson, a rural surveyor at Savills York, has won a major award for his dedication and care when flooding hit 25 estate properties in Yorkshire.

He was awarded the rural prize at the RICS Matrics Young Surveyor of the Year Awards which recognise the most inspirational young surveying professionals in the UK.

The 11 categories – ranging from residential, rural, valuation and project management – attracted hundreds of entries and Mr Watson was one of three shortlisted in the rural selection.

In announcing him as the winner, Sally Lewis, RICS Matrics chairman and head of the judging panel, commended his dedication in working around the clock to liaise between client, tenants, insurers, loss adjusters and builders, to get all the properties back into good habitable condition – going beyond the call of duty.

Mr Watson said: "It’s great to have won. The competition was tough, but being a part has been very worthwhile."