Background
Dick was born on Christmas Day 1922, the fifth child of Dorothy and Rae Harrison.
Rae was an auctioneer and in charge of Harrison and Hetherington's mart at the Sands, in Dumfries.
Dick always took an interest in wildlife, farming and auctioneering and went along with his Dad, to help out at the mart as soon as he was able. He officially joined the family firm in 1939 and had a very successful career.
Dick encouraged and supported innovation and diversification and during his time at Harrison & Hetherington the firm moved into areas as varied as farm implements, car auction and printing. Dick's skill as an auctioneer, business acumen and commitment to farming were recognized in a number of ways; both locally and nationally. He was awarded the Blamire Medal in 1987, for his services to agriculture.
Although "meetings" were not his natural habitat, he was passionate about agriculture and served on a number of national committees including the Livestock Auctioneers Market Committee.
Dick was supported and married to Lily Harrison for over 30 years. During that time his generosity and enthusiasm meant she could share in his passions for wildlife, livestock and his job. He loved all aspects of his work and was keen to support young people in their development, so they too could find fulfilment.
When Dick passed away, Lily was asked about suitable objectives for a Trust Fund to commemorate his life. Considering his values, she was proud to suggest that the Trust should provide financial support for those who would like to train in the area of auctioneering or land agency.
Lily was one of the founder Trustees serving until 2020. She always enjoyed meeting applicants, finding out more about their studies, and to watch their progress. After standing down as an active Trustee Lily was appointed Patron of the Trust until she passed away in 2024.
The Harrison families involvement in the Trust continues today with Dawn Harrison (Dicks daughter) and Ed Williamson and Harriet Scanlon (Dicks grandchildren) still serving as Trustees.
A Trust was established on the death of Dick Harrison to help people wishing to pursue careers as livestock auctioneers and land agents. The Trust was initially funded through donations by Mr Harrisons wife, Lily Harrison (long time Trustee and Patron of the Trust), Harrison and Hetherington Limited and the farming and rural community.
The objects of the Trust are to provide education and training by awarding grants for fees or maintenance to persons who are desirous of training (whether at an educational establishment or otherwise) in livestock auctioneering and/or rural estate management. Support by way of financial assistance would take the form of books, equipment or grants towards travel arrangements.
The Trust has charitable status with limited funds and can only support those people whose needs are greatest.
Applications for support are invited from persons who meet the above criteria and who were born in Scotland or the Counties of Cumbria, or Northumberland, or who are (or whose parents or guardians are) at the time of the award resident in any of these places.
