Members Dinner Celebration and collaboration A fabulous night was had by everyone who attended the BPA Members Dinner at the end of last month, says BPA head of marketing and events Dave Smith return to the historic London venue of Drapers Hall, for the first time since 2015, was welcomed by all who attended the BPA Members Dinner 2023, which had a stellar line-up of speakers and a silent auction to raise funds for the BPA members charity, Macmillan Cancer Support. Chair of the BPA Board Anjna Patel MBE opened proceedings by thanking everyone for their valuable contribution to the sector, with special mentions for the BPA staff team, Council members and her fellow Board members, who have supported her in her role. Collaboration, learning from each other, sharing knowledge, and mutual respect are all vital ingredients for a successful career in this amazing sector, said Patel. She introduced special guest Shawn Conrad, chief executive of the International Parking and Mobility Institute (IPMI), who addressed the audience. He praised the work of the BPA, and said he looked forward to even greater collaboration between the two associations in the future. DCBLs Steve Clark spoke on behalf of A DCBL and Zatpark, the evenings sponsors, and recognised the significant efforts of BPA staff and members in responding to the governments recent private parking code call for evidence. I know that 2024 will bring challenges, but being supported by the BPA family will help us to overcome them. BPA President Stuart Harrison provided a summary of his presidential year to date. He said he welcomed the opportunity to travel the country to meet members and learn about the tremendous work being delivered by and for the BPA community. Whether we work in the public or private sector, it is important that we work collaboratively, where possible, to raise standards, change perceptions, and demonstrate our commitment to a cleaner, greener and safer society through effective parking management, Harrison said. Whatever your specialism, your Association is here to support you, through our diverse, knowledgeable, and leading membership community. Harrison presented the Ernest Davies Award to this years winner David Peach and the highly commended award to Russell Simmons. He then introduced guest speaker Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson who gave an inspirational speech, with highlights from her sporting career. She also praised the work of the BPA and its Park Access accreditation to deliver more accessible and inclusive parking facilities. The Ernest Davies winning entry Time off travellers by David Peach will in Februarys Parking News. You can also read it online at bit.ly/PNDec23ED Gold sponsor Silver sponsor 26 PN Dec 2023 pp26-27 Members dinner.indd 26 01/12/2023 10:49