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Hospitality leaders recognised in Queen's Birthday Honours list

13 Jun 2016
The chief executive of Hertfordshire Catering Limited has been awarded an MBE for services to education.

Lin O’Brien, who is also regional chair of East of England for LACA, was named amongst hundreds of others in the annual list.

Other names listed include Richard Reed, founder of Innocent Drinks, who was awarded a CBE for services to the food industry and charity, and Romy Gill of Romy’s Kitchen, who was awarded an MBE for services to the hospitality industry.

John Hyde, chairman of HIT Training, has added a CBE to his name for services to apprenticeships in hospitality and care.

Of his win, he said: “I am delighted to accept this award on behalf of all my staff at HIT and other colleagues working to deliver apprenticeships and upskill the country.

“The satisfaction for me is seeing employees in the hotel and catering sector gain skills, confidence and competence through their apprenticeship to improve their life chances and earning potential.”

Shirley Louise Spear was awarded an OBE for her work in the food and drink industry in Scotland, whilst John Declan Toner was awarded an MBE for his services to the Northern Irish hospitality and tourism industry.

Businesswomen, Kirsty Loveday who founded Love Drinks in 2007, was also recognised with a British Empire Medal in recognitioin of her services to the drinks industry.

She said: “It is hugely flattering and quite overwhelming to be recognised as making a significant contribution to the drinks industry.

“My passion has always been to help build quality brands, support and recognise innovation and showcase the unique heritage behind each of our partner’s products.”