Paul Thomson, aged 23, Strathmore JAC club chairman.

Q: What does it mean to you to be leading the club as it approaches its 80th anniversary?

A: It’s a great privilege to be chairman in the club’s 80th year. It’s been fantastic to take a trip down memory lane, meeting past members through special anniversary events held this year, leading up to our main celebrations at our dinner dance.

Q: What challenges do you believe the club will face in the next decade, and how can members work together to overcome them?

A: Let’s hope the club doesn’t face challenges like those of the last decade! None of us could have predicted a global pandemic and the difficulties it brought but thankfully technology allowed us to keep members engaged and maintain that crucial social connection to keep us going.

Q: How can the club continue to attract and engage younger members?

A: A challenge our club, like many others, will always face is encouraging new members and retaining them as they head off to university or travel. Our committee works hard to offer two varied syllabuses each year, focusing on fresh and exciting activities. From our new members’ night, farm tours, and distillery visits to traditional gatherings like our annual whist drive – a fantastic social evening that brings together past and present members.

Q: In your opinion, what has been the most significant contribution the club has made to the local community over the years?

A: In December 2023, Strathmore JAC organised a Hogmanay charity tractor run, which was a huge success with 40 tractors taking to the road. This event raised over £6,000 for Ninewells Hospital ICU, an impressive achievement. This is just one of the many ways the club supports the community, and we’re looking forward to holding another charity tractor run this year.