Our team at Duffus Estate is tight-knit
Like everything we do at the Estate, we put our heart and soul into our team and want them to feel part of the Duffus Estate family. We sent our team a few questions to share with you, read on to meet David, who has been with us since 2019 in the role of Groundsperson.
Give us an insight into your daily routine at Duffus Estate?
During the summer months my day begins by visiting Kula where I empty all the bins and check it is all tidy ready for our customers that day. In the autumn and winter these visits are often blessed by stunning sunrises which I love capturing on camera.
Then it is off to my shed to collect the mower and head out to cut the grass at our holiday cottages and across the Estate. We have we have wild flower and grassy areas which are left to grow to provide a diverse habitat for the bugs and beasties. The hedges throughout the Estate need attention twice a year, always checking that there are no nesting birds first! My role is very dynamic, when a maintenance issue arises in one of the holiday cottages, I am first responder! I am a dab hand with fixing issues with lights, washing machines, dishwashers and showers.
Seasonal jobs around the Estate involve bulb planting and chopping wood for firewood. Training is essential for this and I have completed the Cross-Cutting course which means I can cut the windblown trees for firewood for the holiday cottages.
Tell us a little about yourself….
Playing snooker and pool are a firm favourite of mine and I used to play in a local league. Now my daughter has arrived, I have less time for this, but still enjoy playing on my table at home. I love motors, whether it is driving or tinkering with them. Best of all is spending time with my daughter, Ava. Whether it is crafting or playing, or letting her help me with my work around the house, she brings such energy and happiness.
A little known fact from my past is my passion for running. I twice competed in orienteering at Gordonstoun, just next door to Duffus Estate. The first time I represented Moray, and the second I represented Scotland. I’ve always loved the outdoors.
What do you enjoy about working in the team at Duffus Estate?
The variety my role brings and being out in nature. I love working outside and seeing the deer, the pheasant, squirrels and recently saw a barn owl and her 3 chicks! There are often woodworking projects to do, which I love doing. The people on the Estate really make working here great.
