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Neil is one of just three LACA chairs to have served two terms of office, taking the helm from 2004-2005 and then again from 2008-2009. The second time saw him faced with representing school caterers during the introduction of new nutritional standards in the wake of TV chef Jamie Oliver’s exposé of school meals on Channel 4.

Since 2008 he has headed LACA’s Events Group (formerly the Training & Development Committee), which oversees the association’s showpiece annual conference and exhibition known as the Main Event. His time in charge has seen the event grow in size and importance, adding extra attractions such as Finishing Touches, the final of the School Chef of the Year (SCOTY) and most recently the Grab & Go Challenge.

Former LACA School Chef of the Year winner Kath Breckon from North Yorkshire Council won the Chef of the Year Award. June Cormie- Education Catering received the Catering Manager of the Year Award.

The Education Catering Award was given to the catering team at Downham Market Academy, whilst Cleverchefs collected the Contract Caterer of the Year Award. It was also announced on the night that Shire Services won the Marketing Award.

Public Sector Catering editor David Foad said afterwards: “It was a terrific awards night, a genuine celebration of the best in an industry that does such a fantastic job behind the scenes. My congratulations go to all the winners, with thanks to everyone who was nominated for making our judges work so hard over difficult decisions this year.”

Colin Murray was the Public Sector Catering awards night host. The event was attended by over 600 people from the catering industry.