The Wood Recyclers’ Association (WRA) has revealed the winners of its 25th Anniversary Awards, celebrating excellence, innovation and leadership across the UK’s wood recycling sector.
The winners were announced yesterday (July 2) at a special one-off awards ceremony at the Forest of Arden Country Club and Hotel in Birmingham, as part of the Association’s landmark anniversary conference and celebration.
The awards formed a centrepiece of the event, which brought together more than 160 professionals from the waste wood sector and wider resources and waste industry.
The awards highlighted the breadth of talent and innovation within the industry, with categories ranging from Rising Star to Outstanding Contribution.
Entries were judged by the WRA Board, who were impressed by the high standard of submissions.
As part of the Awards Ceremony, the WRA also selected recipients for four Special Board Awards, recognising exceptional contributions to the sector.
These awards shine a light on individuals who have played a truly meaningful role in defining where the sector is today, and helping to shape its future.
Mark Hayton, WRA Chair, said: “Our winners exemplify the innovation and dedication at the heart of the wood recycling industry. Their achievements highlight the progress we’ve made over the past 25 years and the expertise and dedication that continue to drive our industry forward.”
“Many congratulations to all our winners and our finalists!”
The winners are:
Main Awards:
WRA Business Champion Award
WINNER – Community Wood Recycling
WRA Rising Star Award
WINNER – Ivan Szabo, Westminster Waste
WINNER – Connor Paterson, EGGER Timberpak
Outstanding Contribution to the UK Wood Recycling Industry
WINNER – Vicki Hughes, McPhee Associates
Special Board Awards:
Partnership Award
Presented to – Howard Leberman from the Environment Agency
Lifetime Achievement Award
Presented to – Geoff Hadfield, founding member of the WRA and former WRA Chairman
Presented to – Richard Mehmend, Founder and Managing Director of Community Wood Recycling
Leadership Excellence Award
Presented to – Julia Turner, WRA Executive Director