University of Glasgow
Mathematics and Natural Philosophy Honours Class of 1963

50th Anniversary Reunion

 

Neil Wotherspoon

After graduating, I moved to the London area to a job involving Radar scattering.  This was my first and last scientific work, because in the process I discovered computers and programming.   The latter requires an interesting mixture of creativity, logic and attention to detail, and I thoroughly enjoyed it – still do.   A few years were spent with computer manufacturers learning the trade, and in 1969 I set up a small (one-man) software house.  During the 70s we managed to grow steadily, then in the 80s became more of a staff agency, peaking at about 100 staff and 250 freelancers. 
I sold up and retired in 1996, and went skiing for a season.

Although my health has generally been pretty good, during the 90s I developed a leaky mitral valve and in 1999 had to have open-heart surgery to repair it.  A complication resulted in having to be opened up again two weeks later, not the most pleasant experience.

Now, I spend a couple of days a week helping Charities with their computer systems, not only hardware and software, but also some programming, database administration and website development.     Other interests include skiing, golf, competitive bridge and choral singing.

I married my wife Jackie in 1967.    We have one daughter, Fiona, born in 1971 now a Consultant Endocrinologist in Plymouth, and two young grandsons.