Ashburton residents who spot drones flying overhead early next month need not be alarmed.

It’s not a surveillance exercise – it’s to assess the condition of the town hall’s roof and bell tower to see what repairs might be needed.

In a social media post, Ashburton Town Council said:

“While the drone is in use, we may also capture footage of the town and its public spaces for use in council communications and promotional materials.

“The drone is not intended to film people or private property, and every effort will be made to avoid capturing them.

“Any images or footage containing identifiable individuals that are not required for these purposes will not be retained.”

The drone filming is due to take place during the week starting Monday, August 4.