Labour MP and BII Chief Executive among new Companion Members

The British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) has made six long-standing members Companions of the Institute and presented three Honorary Companionships to key industry figures.

Companion Membership (CMBII) is the highest form of appreciation and recognition for members who have made an outstanding contribution to the BII and the industry as a whole.

Long-serving BII members John Johnston, John Pleass, Anthony Mears, Jim Church, Peter Thomas and Bob Lamberton were rewarded for their dedication and commitment to the BII with Companion Memberships.

And among the Honorary CMBIIs was John Grogan MP, who was the keynote speaker at last year's BII Annual Luncheon and has worked closely with the industry on key issues like licensing reform in his role as Chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group.

The BII's own Chief Executive John McNamara was also awarded an Honorary CMBII for his tireless efforts in promoting the Institute and the industry it serves.

Raoul de Vaux, Chairman of National Pubwatch, was also presented with Honorary Companionships.

The awards were presented on May 11 at the British Institute of Innkeeping Annual Luncheon, sponsored by Sky, at London's Grosvenor House Hotel. Ends]

The BII is the professional body for the licensed trade. It has around 15,500 members and last year BIIAB processed over 80,000 qualifications. Its mission is to promote high standards of professionalism throughout the licensed retail sector; to encourage new entrants into the industry, and to help them develop their long-term careers. To provide all our members with high quality information, skills and qualifications to help them succeed in their business activities.