Pub sector celebrated in New Year Honours list
Alongside film and television stars such as Sheila Hancock, sports people including Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton and musicians such as Craig David, a number of figures from the hospitality industry have been recognised.
The list aims to mark the achievements and service of extraordinary people across the United Kingdom.
UKHospitality (UKH) chief executive Kate Nicholls received an OBE in the list, for services to the sector.
Nicholls said: “While I am personally humbled and honoured to receive this recognition, I have to pay tribute to the entire UKH team for their tireless work and campaigning throughout this year, continually highlighting to Government the specific challenges our sector faces.
“This year has been one of continued despair and heartbreak for hard-pressed hospitality businesses."
Wonderful sector
Nicholls added: “They were hit first and hit hardest by the pandemic but, despite this, there have been countless inspirational examples of leadership, resilience and collaboration, of people coming together to support their local communities during this unprecedented time, helping to feed frontline NHS and key workers, the homeless and support others in need.
“It is those values that make me proud to have represented and been part of such a wonderful sector for many years.
“Our focus now is to continue to press Government for additional financial support that will enable businesses to survive through the winter and be in a position to reopen and welcome back customers. I very much look forward to celebrating with family and friends at the first opportunity.”
National Pubwatch chair Steve Baker was also awarded an OBE for his services to reducing crime and improving safety in licenced premises.
Baker, who is a retired police inspector, took on the role as chair of the voluntary organisation in 2007.
Major impact
Baker said: “I was surprised and delighted to be awarded this OBE. It has been a privilege to chair National Pubwatch for the past 13 years, with the organisation making a major impact in fighting crime and disorder.
“This is a great honour and not just for me but the whole National Pubwatch committee and all the pubwatches around the country that are doing a hugely important job in ensuring that the late-night economy is safe.
“Our aim is to create safer drinking environments and over the years we have worked hard to promote pubwatch as a best practice initiative deserving of support and recognition by the Home Office and police.”
Pub manager Sharon Howell from the Salisbury Arms in Hertford was awarded an MBE for charitable services in Hertfordshire.
Starting the year with some phenomenal news that our incredible manager Sharon from the Salisbury Arms in Hertford has been awarded an MBE in the New Year’s Honours List of 2021 for her endless charitable work! pic.twitter.com/RmIyR4pdNz
— McMullen's Brewery (@McMullens1827) January 1, 2021
Licensee of the Bell in Ash, Somerset, Caroline Halfhide also received an MBE for services to the community in Martock, during the Covid-19 response.
