It is a pivotal moment for the Tomintoul and Glenlivet Development Trust. Following our recent meeting, we are officially welcoming six newly appointed directors to the board. Each brings a unique blend of local history, professional expertise, and a deep commitment to ensuring our community continues to thrive.
Meet the New Directors
Reuel Chisholm (Chair)
Proposed by: Jennifer Stewart
Seconded by: Malcolm MacGarvin
Why He’s Standing: As TGDT was created to foster successful local businesses and celebrate our shared heritage, it would be a catastrophic loss to lose the organisation and its assets. While turning challenges into success will take time, Reuel believes this new team offers a strong mix of diverse skills to get it done. His core focus is being visible, approachable, and communicative.
Markus Coulson
Proposed by: Marjorie Wilson
Seconded by: Scott Ashforth
Why He’s Standing: Having moved to Tomintoul a few years ago, Markus has fallen in love with the area. Beyond tackling TGDT’s current challenges, he is passionate about building strong relationships with members and connecting the board with other local groups. Already active in the community, having helped establish the Tomintoul and Glenlivet Youth Club, Markus wants to champion young people across the region and increase communication with the community.
Stephen Hershall
Proposed by: Elaine Hershall
Seconded by: Paula Massheder
Why He’s Standing: With long-standing family roots in the area and prior experience as a TGDT director, Stephen stepped forward out of concern over news that the Trust might fold. Understanding the true vision of the Trust and the vital support it provides, Stephen is committed to getting TGDT back on track.
Eleanor Mackintosh
Proposed by: Neil Buchanan
Seconded by: Elizabeth Smith
Why She’s Standing: As the elected representative on the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) board, Eleanor reflects on 2011, when a community callout to the CNPA to address village decline directly led to the creation of TGDT. A new board is crucial to keeping the Trust alive, so let’s encourage even more people, especially from Glenlivet, to step up and join.
Phil Roger
Proposed by: Julie Rogers
Seconded by: Scott Ashforth
Why He’s Standing: A resident since 2025 and co-owner of Belneden Steading holiday cottages, Phil brings previous governance experience with TGDT, the Cairngorms Business Partnership, and Visit Moray Speyside, alongside a corporate background in risk and control. Having taken a hands-on interest in local housing developments, Phil aims to offer the continuity and corporate insight needed to navigate ongoing challenges.
Elspeth ‘Ellie’ Richardson (Treasurer)
Proposed by: Martin Richardson
Seconded by: Ian Hargreaves
Why She’s Standing: A former TGDT director and previous Chair of the Kirkmichael and Tomintoul Community Association, Ellie brings 30 years of commercial and branch banking expertise to the table. She is eager to help drive the Trust forward and remind members that open seats remain for anyone wanting to step up.
Passing the Baton: Closing Remarks from Tilly
Tilly had the following to say on behalf of the departing leadership:
“I would like to thank everyone for their involvement and support of the Development Trust.
The outgoing Board will work closely with the newly appointed directors to ensure a full and orderly handover of responsibilities, providing continuity for the Trust as it moves forward.
I would like to congratulate the new Board and wish them every success in leading the Trust into its next chapter.”
A Call for Unity: Remarks from John Shewan
Showing support for both the incoming leadership and the continuation of the Trust, John Shewan voiced hope that the new board will tackle current hurdles with a fresh perspective.
Urging the community to let the “slate be wiped clean,” John has called on members to afford the new directors time, patience, and respect as they navigate the road ahead. He also shared sincere thanks to all directors, past and present, for the countless volunteer hours dedicated to our community.
The board still has vacancies available. If you care about the future of Tomintoul and Glenlivet, consider stepping forward to lend your skills.
