Wishing you a long and happy retirement, Donald
It was the end of an era on Tuesday December 7 as Donald Morrison retired from United Auctions after a career spanning 48 years, serving the West Coast since he was 17 years old.
Having stood down from his auctioneering role in 2018, Donald, who turned 65 in November, will pass on the baton for west coast sales to the existing team of Raymond Kennedy, Peter Wood, Ross Fotheringham, Murray Steel and Derek Anderson who have been in place since 2016.
Donald’s last day as a director of Scotland’s leading livestock auctioneers will be December 31 but he will continue to be a familiar face at the sale rings at
Stirling, Dalmally, Oban, Islay, Tiree and Uist markets to buy livestock on behalf of farmers and crofters.
During his time at the company as both an employee and board member, Donald has been instrumental in helping to secure the long-term sustainability of the west coast markets.
The crofter’s son from South Uist advocated for the company’s investments to upgrade the United Auctions-owned Dalmally and Islay marts and the centre at Moleigh near Oban. He also played a major role working with the communities of Tiree and Lochboisdale to ensure their community marts were built.
Donald was also a key part of the team in securing the reappointment of United Auctions as operators at Oban Livestock Centre.
Ahead of his retirement, Donald conducted a last auction for United Auctions, the sale of farm equipment on behalf of the estate of the late Anne Maclarty. Donald expressed a wish to conduct the sale as Anne was one of the first clients that Donald dealt with, becoming a friend for more than 40 years. Donald thought it only fitting to go out on a high.
To view the video, visit www. obantimes.co.uk