The 2016 BMRA Annual Dinner was attended by over 350 members, all keen to network with colleagues, say hello to old friends and pay homage to well-known industry stalwarts. Held at the Radisson Blu Portman Square in London, instead of a guest speaker, this year attendees were wowed by two table magicians, Jamie Doherty and Jake Banfield. 

The highlight of the evening, however, was the presentation of the all new Lifetime Achievement Awards. To celebrate the wealth of talent, expertise and experience across the metals recycling industry, and recognising that this was the first year of the initiative, the BMRA Board decided to give four Awards. These went to:

• Tony Dodds of Sackers Recycling Ltd
• Philip Keatley of MMH Recycling
• Pat Church of FJ Church
• Allan Hyams, of APM Metals (awarded posthumously).

Philip Keatley said: “I am extremely proud and honoured to have been nominated for this award by my peers in the industry. I have thoroughly enjoyed my 32 years in the Recycling Industry”.

This year, there was also a Charity Auction and Raffle led by guest auctioneer Adrian Dodds. Thanks to attendees’ deep pockets and Adrian's showmanship, the Association raised £8,500 for the Bob Champion Cancer Trust. Bob Champion is famous for his comeback ride on Aldaniti in the 1981 Grand National. He was diagnosed with testicular cancer and, following aggressive treatment and despite being given just a 35% chance of surviving, he defied doctors to win the gruelling race. He has since dedicated his time to raising awareness of male cancers.

The lots auction were:

• 2 Executive Club tickets for Manchester United’s last game of the season against Crystal Palace on 2 May 2017. Donated by Norman Global.
• 2 tickets for the Royal Ascot Racing Club. Donated by Ascot Racecourse/
• A morning on the Newmarket Gallops with Bob Champion. Donated by Bob Champion.
• A day of fly fishing for 4 people on the River Test in Hampshire.Donated by Brian Lown, The Fishing Party.
• 2 Category A tickets for England v Argentina at Twickenham (West Stand) on 26 November. Donated by Andrew Gomersall, Network 2 Supplies.
• A day for four at a British super bikes round, with hospitality. Donated by James Nicholls, CF Booth.
• 2 tickets for a Britain’s Got Talent Live Show.Donated by James Nicholls, CF Booth.

The Annual Dinner itself was preceded by the inaugural Annual BMRA Networking Event where attendees met suppliers, both new and current, and generally networked with industry colleagues. Feedback from those at this free event indicates that some useful deals were struck.

We will shortly be sending out a survey to gather greater feedback and to learn what you felt about this year’s dinner to help us plan for next year. Please do take the time to respond.