Getting up close with the Scotmid board and committee members continues with David Paterson, Scotmid Board & East Regional Committee member.

Why (and how long ago) did you become a member of Scotmid?

When I was little, my mum made sure we memorised her share number.   We always shopped at St Cuthbert’s Co-op due to the dividend and prices.  I became a share member when I started working for the Society in 1974 at the Nicolson Street non-food department store.

How and why did you decide to become more actively involved?

When I heard there was a space on the East Area Committee I applied and I was successful in being voted on by our members.

What major changes have you seen in your time with Scotmid?

The biggest change of all was becoming Scotmid Co-op, when St Cuthbert’s merged with Dalziel Society of Motherwell in 1981.  The Society has grown from strength to strength, due to its members, management and board

What’s been your proudest moment at Scotmid?

Going back to Nicolson Street to run it as manager temporarily and also my election to the East Area Board in 1988.

What encouragement would you give to Scotmid members who are looking to become more involved with the Society?

It really is a worthwhile endeavour.  Just being involved in the policy making process in such an enterprise is a real motivator.

If there’s one thing you can’t pass by on your local Scotmid shelves, what is it?

The wine selection is amazing!

What do you do to relax?

I play guitar and do the odd DJ party – I love music and anything to do with music (listening, playing or watching live music) more than anything … except my wife, Allison, of course!  I actually met Allison on holiday in Spain but she too started working with the Society from school, working in the Travel section! 

I love to walk and I continually learn French language.  I am good at speaking French but not such a good listener which will improve with time!

What’s your favourite film?

Easy answer is Papillion (Steve McQueen and Dustin Hoffman)

What’s been your favourite holiday destination and why?

Although I was born and bred in Edinburgh, there is no place more beautiful than the West Coast of Scotland.