Were you papped at the Publican Awards?

Tom Allen, comedian and star of TV shows such as The Apprentice: You’re Fired​ and Bake Off: An Extra Slice​, hosted the event alongside Ed Bedington, editor of The Morning Advertiser​, which runs the awards.

There were plenty of awards up for grabs and everyone who made the final should be justifiably proud of their achievements no matter what the outcome – and those attending knew how to party too!

South-east-based business Heartwood Inns won two awards in the Best Managed Pub Company (2-50 sites) and Best Pub Operations Team categories.

People-driven business​

Loungers chairman and co-founder Alex Reilley was named Business Leader of the Year for achieving astonishing growth in a challenging and complex market.

Reilley said on the night: “We have had a massive challenge over the past few years but you have to remember we are a fabulously people-driven business with a fabulous culture across the industry.

“Fundamentally while we still have challenges, we are really integral to way that people exist and want to live their lives.”

The event saw more a record-breaking attendance of more than 1,500 guests come together to celebrate excellence across the pub and bar industry.

Incredible businesses​

Bedington of The Morning Advertiser​ said: “We are delighted to announce and celebrate our winners, shining a light on the incredible businesses showcasing the best in our sector, despite the challenges we all are facing.

“All of the companies we have seen over the past few weeks and months have been outstanding and judges have had a tough job to pick winners.

“These awards are the pinnacle of the industry and even being shortlisted is an amazing achievement so a huge well done to all finalists and winners.”

The awards are sponsored by Britvic Soft Drinks, Budweiser Brewing Group UK&I, Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, Heineken UK, illy Coffee, Kopparberg, Moët Hennessey, Molson Coors Beverage Company, Poppleston Allen and Sky Business.

Take a look at the pictures below to see if you were snapped on the night.

Plenty of mingling during dining

Networking opportunity

Arrivals are right on time

Many a game of air hockey was enjoyed

Laughs aplenty were order of the day

The drinks area was close to capacity

Lots of chat while waiting for the awards to take place

Another chance to get to know each other

What a grand spectacle

Man of the moment - host and comedian Tom Allen

Cheers lads

No need to be a square with some of the drinks on offer 

Reach for the stars

This guy's got the moves like Jagger

Some of the sector greats were suited up