Published on: 18 November 2021
Last Thursday (11.11.21) British Marine, in association with British Marine Inland Boating and British Marine Midlands associations held the first “physical” networking event with our members in over 18 months.
Held in the center of Birmingham, the networking event saw over 75 members come together to discuss a range of topics including; the future boating customer, marine insurance, alternative propulsion systems and the new Hire Boat Code.
Attracting members from across British Marine’s footprint, the room was “buzzing” with conversation and debate.
As the networking closed, it also gave British Marine the opportunity to formally recognise the efforts of one of our members who has gone the extra mile for their association during the Coronavirus pandemic.
For many years, the Peter Millward Memorial Award has been presented to an individual who has made a significant contribution to British Marine Associations.
It is given in memory of Peter Millward who, as Chairman of Association of Pleasure Craft Operators (APCO) in the late 1980’s, was instrumental in bringing the association into the British Marine Federation.
The Award was established soon after Peter sadly lost a long battle against cancer, and the recipient is chosen each year by British Marine staff.
This year, Nigel Hamilton, Chair of British Marine Inland Boating (BMIB), was voted on as a worthy recipient, having steered BMIB through the Covid-19 pandemic, running numerous “Virtual” networking events to keep the association in touch with each other as well as representing the sector with inland navigation authorities.
Paul Gullett, British Marine President Elect, who was in attendance and presented the award to Nigel said:
“It was such a boost to be at the first “real” networking session in Birmingham for Inland Boating and British Marine Midlands, interesting presentations and rewarding discussions, it was an honour to be able to present the Peter Millward Memorial Award to Nigel Hamilton for all his herculean efforts to keep us all connected during this pandemic. Thanks again Nigel and the British Marine team.”
Also commenting, Nigel Hamilton said:
“After a two year gap it was wonderful to finally be able to meet and network with British Marine Members face to face again.”
“I was very surprised, but delighted, to be presented with the Peter Milward Award”.
The event was very kindly sponsored by Hoseasons, Inland and Coastal Marina systems, Promarine Finance, Midlands Chandlers, E P Barrus and Aqueduct Marina.
To find out about future networking events and association activities please visit our Events Calendar.