COMMUNITY members in Salisbury are remembering former director of the South Wiltshire Mencap (SWM) charity shop Nigel Scott, who has passed away aged 89.

Known for his decades-long dedication to supporting people with learning disabilities, Nigel’s impact on the charity is remembered as profound and enduring.

From his early involvement with Hillcote, Nigel became “a mainstay of SWM”, according to a tribute by Sue Hirst on the charity’s website.

Over the years, he held numerous roles including trustee, company secretary, treasurer, and shop director, always prioritising the welfare and quality of life for “our people”.

A key figure in the charity’s development, Nigel played a pivotal role in the acquisition of 16 Catherine Street when the previous shop’s lease expired.

Later, he led the project to improve the shop floor, convert upper stories for storage, and generate income from flats – an initiative credited with securing the strong financial position of SWM.

Remarkably, Nigel remained actively involved in the shop’s operations up until his death, still banking for the shop at the Post Office.

He was widely recognised for his careful stewardship of the society’s funds, always ensuring they directly benefited local people with learning disabilities.

It was he who first proposed the New Year Party, declaring, “our people love a party!”, and the celebration continues to be a highlight for many in the community.

Known for his pragmatic approach, Nigel was cautious about money being diverted to bureaucracy or councils.

In the charity’s early days, he famously resisted contributions to the council’s community sports scheme, insisting, “he wanted the money to be spent on activities, not on phones or desks”, though he eventually acknowledged the importance of communication for community engagement.

His guidance helped establish a programme that now forms a core part of Wiltshire Council’s support for people with disabilities.

Nigel also made a lasting mark through street collections, which became a cornerstone of SWM fundraising.

He was the driving force behind the collections, from organising rotas and counting donations to, memorably, “perilously climbing a step ladder to put up the banner in front of The Guildhall!”

Under his leadership, SWM regularly outperformed other charities in fundraising.

The charity remembers Nigel as a thoughtful and courteous presence whose contributions were consistently guided by integrity and compassion.

“Our hearts go out to Angela, Alan and all the family,” the tribute concludes, reflecting the deep affection and respect held for a man whose life was dedicated to the community he served.