Chris Maclean: I am an Innkeeper. And proud of it...

I had lunch today at the Butcher's Hall. I was a guest of our butcher in town to the monthly Worshipful Company lunch.

Yet l feel disgusted and betrayed.

The Company of Butchers is a fine body of people. They are masters of their craft and have, for almost a thousand years, acknowledged their craft and their whole industry in delivering meat to their customers with the highest possible standards.

So why am I upset?

Simply this.

Why can't licensees do this?

Lunch was for around 200 people and showcased the best examples of their craft. Butchers, current, retired, wholesale or retail gathered to celebrate what they do. It was a privelidge to be amongst them.

They celebrate their heritage. Their history. Their tradition.

They know what they do and what it means to their consumers. They care for what they do and how they do it. They are a beacon of hope for those who wish to achieve.

And yet licensees do nothing.

What about us?

What organisation are out there represents us?

Nothing. No one.

I can list a number of organisations that claim to do so.

BII, National LVA, Worshipful Company of Innholders and probably more.

But the wretched truth is this:

a) there is no body which champions the role of traditional innkeeper in contemporary Britain

b) there is no body who speaks for the honorable institute of innkeeping

c) there is no body protecting the interest of licensees

d) there is no body who seeks to preserve the history and tradition of licensing and guide it into the future.

No one.

The stink of betrayal fills the air.

Repeatedly there are cries to unite - and yet they are ignored.

So imagine a different scenario. It isn't that far fetched. Other industries have models that match this closely.

A letter arrives on your doormat inviting you to a luncheon in London. It invites you to join a group of other licensees who aspire to greater standards. You are part of a chosen elite. It will be hosted by an association of licensees. There will be drinks. Some people in ceremonial garb will confirm the history and tradition of this group. Lunch. A short speech. Some drinks then you disperse to local pubs to ruminate. You will meet fellow licensees in similar predicaments. You will strive for the highest standards. You will walk away feeling proud of your industry.

Would you go?

Oh yes. I'd sign up tomorrow.

Why doesn't it happen?

I don't know.

I am disgusted and betrayed that none of the organisations purporting to to meet our needs come even close to achieving this. It isn't because the industry is new. Not one of our industry associations can even claim a connection.

It is because those that should have have lost their soul.

I am disgusted and betrayed by those who hinder my desire to be proud of what I do.

I am an innkeeper through and through.

And I'm proud of it.