The Licensed Trade Charity (LTC) award winners have been announced, at the organisation’s annual dinner at the Millennium Gloucester Hotel, in London.
The event was attended by more than 300 professionals from across the licensed hospitality sector and hosted by writer, broadcaster, speaker, and founder and owner of The Sporting Club, Ian Stafford.
He was joined by special guests former England and Newcastle football player Les Ferdinand and Scottish actor James Cosmo, with the awards followed by a set from Capital FM DJ Will Manning.
The evening was a celebration of not only the achievements of LTC, but also a recognition of the individuals and organisations that exemplify best practice in wellbeing. These individuals have gone above and beyond to support the industry charity and raise awareness of its services among their teams and the wider hospitality community throughout the year.
The winners were:
- Wellbeing champion award: Katherine Panayi, Barons Pub Company
- Excellence in workplace wellbeing (suppliers): Bidfood
- Excellence in workplace wellbeing (operators over 251 sites): Star Pubs
- Excellence in workplace wellbeing (operators under 250 sites): Barons Pub Company
- Fundraiser of the year award: Amanda Thomson, Avani Solutions
“This year has been one of both challenge and progress for our sector,” said Chris Welham, chief executive of the LTC. “I want to congratulate all our incredible award winners, who continually drive our industry forward by investing in people and wellbeing.
“We’re incredibly grateful to all our partners, supporters, employees, volunteers, and trustees for their unwavering commitment to LTC. Because of your continued support, we can continue to transform the lives of people across our industry every day.”
Amanda Thomson at the LTC awards with (left to right) former footballer Les Ferdinand, actor James Cosmo, and the Licensed Trade Charity’s director of charity operations, Joby Mortimer
Amanda Thomson, co-founder of Avani Solutions, who was named fundraiser of the year, has been a passionate advocate for LTC, embedding the charity into the very culture of her company and championing its mission both internally and across the wider sector.
This year, Amanda took part in Hospitality Rides, cycling 400km across Taiwan to help raise a collective £441,000 for LTC and Only A Pavement Away. She also joined the Pedalling to Pubs challenge, cycling 220km through the Lake District and helping raise a further £108,000.
Her dedication has inspired her colleagues as well, including a team of Avani technicians who participated in Endure24, the North’s largest 24-hour trail race, proudly representing LTC.
“I’m truly honoured to receive this recognition,” said Amanda. “The Licensed Trade Charity does incredible work to support people in our industry, and I’m proud to be part of that mission. None of this would be possible without the amazing support of the Avani team, this award is for all of us.”
