THE newly-installed president of the Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA) has pledged to help the trade weather “the most challenging time of our lives”.
Appointed the trade group’s 54th president yesterday (Thursday, March 26), Stephen Montgomery – owner of the Townhead Hotel in Lockerbie – acknowledged it was “a challenging time” to step into the role, but promised the association will work to help the trade weather the current crisis.
“Firstly, may I say that my thoughts are with everyone during this critical time for us all in dealing with the stress of business closure, the financial pressures that it brings, our staff well-being and most importantly the welfare of our families,” said Montgomery.
“It all takes its toll on us, and it is indeed without doubt, the most challenging time of our lives so far, but with help and support, we will get through it.”
Montgomery will be supported in his role as president by Graham Blaikie, who has become vice-president, and Murray Lamont, who has been appointed treasurer.
He succeeds past president John Shearer, who wished the association “every success in getting through the next few months and dealing with the challenges that lie ahead for us all in the long term”.
