David Cameron honours Aberdeen mountain rescuer Mario Di Maio

Mario Di Maio was the team leader for 19 years

A mountain rescuer from Aberdeen credited with helping to save hundreds of lives in a career lasting more than 40 years has been recognised by Prime Minister David Cameron.

Mario Di Maio, the former leader of Aberdeen Mountain Rescue Team, has received a Point of Light award.

Mr Di Maio, 61, joined AMRT in 1970, and later spent 19 years as its leader.

He was involved in more than 600 incidents during his 44 years on the team.

They included recovering the bodies of two US airmen after their plane crashed on Ben Macdui in 2001.

'Put something back'

Mr Di Maio retired last year but still helps train and mentor young volunteers.

He said: "I have always been interested in the hills and mountaineering and joining my local mountain rescue team was an opportunity to put something back into the sport.

"I am delighted to have been given this award and I accept it on behalf of all the people who participate as volunteers in mountain rescue."

Mr Cameron said: "He has shown tremendous commitment and dedication to making sure others can stay safe. I am delighted to award him a Point of Light."

The daily Points of Light award recognises outstanding individual volunteers - people who are making a change in their community - and has been developed in partnership with Points of Light programme in the United States.