The great and the good from the pest management industry gathered at the East Wintergardens at Canary Wharf in London on the middle night of PestEx 2017 22 March to celebrate the 75th anniversary of BPCA and for the presentation of the inaugural British Pest Management Awards.
Guests might have been tired having been on their feet all day either attending, or exhibiting, at PestEx 2017, just down the road at ExCeL, but even so there was a distinct buzz and feeling of anticipation in the air. This was a sell-out event with a party atmosphere, partly thanks to chief sponsors, Lodi-UK.
 The stage was set for the gala dinner |
 Guests were in high spirits… |
The evening marked the 75th anniversary of the founding of the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) but other than reference to this in the welcome speech by BPCA president, Paul Rodman, the evening centred on the awards. Sorry BPCA – no birthday cake this time around!
| Welcome from BPCA president – Paul Rodman In his address, Paul Rodman did remind guests that the association began in very different times – 1942 – when during WWII the British government identified the need to protect food supplies through the regulation of chemical stockpiles. Then 20 pest controllers gathered and formed the first association for professional pest controllers in Britain. Ironic really, as the security of the British population had been threatened this very day by the exploits of the lone terrorist just up the road in Westminster and that this news story is being posted on the day Britain gives official notice of leaving the EU. |
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BPCA achievements
Paul went on to highlight some of the achievements of BPCA over the years. Special mention was made of the industry training standards and education programmes that have been developed, the establishment of Codes of Best Practice and the creation of a professional auditing structure against which companies can be properly benchmarked.
Regarding the events established, Paul said: “Our events and influence stretch across the UK in the form of regional fora, PPC Live and PestEx.”
As for today, Paul reminded all those present that the BPCA’s key strategy embraces the three ‘P’s – namely Professionalism, Profile and Profit.
Finally Paul introduced the British Pest Management Awards saying: “These provide a unique opportunity to celebrate standout excellence.” Never before have we come together as a sector to recognise achievements and professionalism of the pest management community in this way.”
Evening enjoyed by all
All 200 guests enjoyed a very memorable evening. Good food, good company and so a good time!
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Following the completion of the dinner, the British Pest Mangement awards were presented. After which guests had the opportunity to catch-up with friends and colleagues or try their hand on the gambling tables. Each of these was sponsored by one of he manufacturers or distributors – namely Barettine, BASF, Killgerm, PelGar, Pelsis, PestFix and Suterra.
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