Last week, BMRA welcomed over 500 guests to its Annual Dinner, which took place at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London.

As usual, the dinner was preceded by a busy networking event showcasing both service and ordinary members. Exhibitors included FJ Church, who were launching a book about the history of the business and the socio-economic world events that impacted it. Written by family member Jenny Jones, Jenny and her brothers, Patrick and Stephen, were on hand to answer questions about the book.

During the dinner, guests were entertained by magicians whilst they enjoyed a four-course meal. Susie Burrage, BMRA President and MD of Recycled Products Limited opened proceedings by giving the room a run through of the achievements of the BMRA over the past year and what challenges we are all facing in 2019. 

Nigel O’Gorman of FJ Church, who is also a BMRA Board member, presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to John, Charlie and Matt Norton of S Norton. From humble beginnings in Everton, the company has grown to have four UK sites, three with dockside facilities, and a turnover of £272 million. John, who collected the awards on behalf of the family, said: "S Norton has always operated with honesty and integrity and we have prospered on the strength of the people we employ. We are very proud to have maintained a family feel throughout the organisation. Everybody plays their part, not just within S Norton, but throughout the supply chain. We recognise the contribution of the smaller operators in the metals recycling sector. Thank you on behalf of my family for this award". 

The evening concluded with a charity auction and raffle led by masterful auctioneer, and BMRA Board Member, Adrian Dodds of Sackers. Thanks to Adrian’s skill and members generosity, we raised £10,000 for Kite Ridge School’s KiteFest Music Festival. A full list of prizes with sponsors and supporters, along with a KiteFest video can be found here. Thank you again for everybody who donated, be it a prize or money.

Next year’s event will once again be at the Royal Lancaster Hotel on the 22 November. As it will be an extra special year given we will be celebrating the 100 years of Associations that led to the BMRA, it will be Black Tie. You will be able to book your tickets from mid-2019.