Travel industry bosses have paid tribute to an industry stalwart who has died. Alec Mitchell, who died aged 94 on August 14, started his career in travel as a clerk in travel agency Mackay Brothers in Aberdeen in 1933.
During his career he rose to become Patons Travel Service managing director in Aberdeen, Scottish Passenger Agents Association (SPAA) honorary president, and Grand Order of European Tour Organisers president.
Mitchell was also an active member of ABTA, serving on the tour operators council, board of directors, and a number of committees, including the code of conduct committee that he chaired for 16 years.
He was also a founder member of the ABTA Benevolent Fund and found time to serve as Aberdeen and Grampian Tourist Board management committee chairman.
ABTA chief executive Mark Tanzer said: “Everyone who came into contact with Alec spoke very highly of him. He was a true gentleman and ABTA and the industry will be greatly diminished by his passing. He will be missed.”
SPAA spokesman Sandy MacPherson added: “Alec was one of the most respected figures in the Scottish travel trade. He was a real character. Everybody was always delighted to see him in his later years whenever he appeared at a Scottish travel event.”
Munro’s Travel Group managing partner Jack Burnett said: “The partners and staff of Munro’s Travel Group are saddened to hear of the demise of Alec Mitchell. Our thoughts are with his wife Dodie and his family. He was one of nature’s gentlemen and well liked by everyone who met him.
“The Scottish travel trade has lost a true legend, a travel man for 60 years, who served the SPAA and ABTA, and reached the highest office with both associations. It will be hard to find his like again.”