The British Beer and Pub Association have awarded Sacha Lord and Stephen Gould for their service to the beer and pub sector and successfully raised over £20,000 for the charities Pub Is The Hub and Only A Pavement Away.

At the Association’s annual dinner and fundraiser last night, Greater Manchester Night Time Economy Advisor Sacha Lord was awarded the Industry Champion Award for his outstanding advocacy for the hospitality sector over the last 12 months. Everard’s Managing Director Stephen Gould won the Chairman’s Award for his 35 years of service to the sector.

Both Pub Is The Hub and Only A Pavement Away work very closely with the hospitality sector and many BBPA members, while also supporting the economic success of the sector through their valuable services.

Greater Manchester Night Time Economy Advisor Sacha Lord said: “It was a huge honour and a humbling moment to receive the award last night.

“Completely unexpected, as the room could probably tell from the minimal acceptance speech! I’d like to thank Emma McClarkin and her team at the BBPA, for choosing Manchester to host the event, being the first time outside of London.

“Looking around the room on Wednesday night at the industry representatives. It clearly shows the high esteem they all hold for the BBPA.

“The sector is still going through troubles, but the positivity felt throughout the room last night, along with the guidance of the BBPA, is why we will get through this.”

Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pub Association said: “We’re very proud to have raised so much money for two amazing causes last night, thanks to the generosity of our membership.

“Sacha and Stephen represent the incredible passion and devotion of those that work in and fight for our sector and the value it brings to communities across the country. It was a privilege to honour them for their hard work and provide them with some well-deserved recognition.”

Pub is The Hub Chief Executive John Longden said: “We would like to thank the British Beer and Pub Association and all the members of the industry at the annual dinner and fundraiser that supported Pub is The Hub.

“These funds will help us support many more pubs and publicans in providing vital local services and activities such as village stores, allotments and community cafes, which can also offer safe spaces to help tackle the major societal issue of loneliness.”

Greg Mangham, founder and CEO of Only A Pavement Away said: “Since Only A Pavement Away started the BBPA have always supported us and we are especially proud to have Emma as one of our Trustees. 

“The money raised at this event will help us support more of our members into work. It’s fantastic to be a beneficiary of this event alongside Pub is the Hub, an amazing charity led by amazing people which does so much for our industry.”