Getting up close with the Scotmid board members and committee continues with Grace Smallman, Scotmid Board & East Regional Committee member. Grace also sits on the Society’s Search Committee and is active in the Co-operative Woman’s Guild in Scotland. She lives in Kirkliston, Edinburgh with husband Hollis, who is President of the Society.
How long have you been a Scotmid member?
I joined the then St Cuthbert’s Society, 52 years ago. I joined so I could get a store club – junior wages were poor!
How did you become actively involved?
I was asked at an AGM if I would like to be nominated for the Education Committee. I did and that was the beginning of what was to come.
What major changes have you seen in your time with Scotmid?
Stores have improved so much over the years but the biggest improvements have been through modern technology.
What’s been your proudest moment at Scotmid?
When my husband became President of the society. He has spent his whole working life serving the co-operative movement.
What encouragement would you give to Scotmid members who are looking to become more involved with the Society?
Just take the bull by the horns and get committed. What can you lose?
Where is your local Scotmid store?
Mornings would not be the same without my daily visit to the Kirkliston store, the staff are first class.
If there’s one thing you can’t pass by on the Scotmid shelves, what is it?
The special offers are fantastic and I check them all the time. Coffee and dog food are both great prices.
What do you do to relax?
I like to be crafty and attend a Card Making class. I also like to get involved in my local church.
What’s your favourite film of all time?
I enjoy the old films most of all, they’re the best. Films like Ben Hur, The Robe and Quo Vadis.
What’s been your favourite holiday destination and why?
As my better half won’t fly, I would say Arran closely followed by Cornwall.