The Kent Construction Professionals' Dinner
Thursday, November 01, 2007
The fourth Kent Construction Professionals’ Dinner was held on 20 September, once again in the glorious surroundings of Leeds Castle.
Kent Centre Chairman, Paul Baker hosted the evening. CIOB President, Martin Chambers was guest of honour and Paul Carter, Leader of Kent County Council was the principal guest speaker.
Martin Chambers talked about the CIOB’s expansion in to China and his forthcoming presidential visit to India. Paul Carter made mention of his experiences both as a councillor and a developer. He emphasised the importance of apprenticeships and had been particularly impressed by the calibre of staff who had come through the Carillion apprenticeship process.
Comedian Ian Irving did a fantastic job as Master of Ceremonies as well as providing the light entertainment at the end of the evening. An added feature this year was a charity auction led by Ian Irving and assisted by former Crystal Palace football player John Salako. The pair made a great double act and coupled with the note raffle, raised over £3,000 for the Pilgrims Hospices in East Kent in memory of past Chairman Mr W G (Peter) Jinks FCIOB, Past Chairman CIOB Kent Centre (1972 & 1983).
Thanks must go to Denne Construction Ltd and Fairhurst Ward Abbotts Ltd for generously sponsoring the drinks reception and prizes for the charity auction.
Building on the success of previous dinners, arrangements are underway for the fifth Dinner to be held at Leeds Castle on Thursday, 11 September 2008.
