John Longden FRICS FRSA from Harrogate has been honoured with an OBE for voluntary services to Rural Communities in the UK.
John Longden launched ‘Pub is The Hub’ in 2001 following an inspirational challenge from HRH The Princes of Wales that rural licensees and pubs may be able to support some local services in their communities.
Today he is supported by senior volunteers from the drinks, pubs and property industry who are keen to help licensees diversify and some communities consider taking on the great challenge of operating a pub themselves.
John often explains: You cannot stand still in this business or with rural services. You have got to try to help good licensees and their communities make a difference.
John previously spent his proper job as a Chartered Surveyor working in the 1980’s with Grand Metropolitan and even had a time as Tied Trade Director in the North. In 1989 he managed the pub and hotels portfolio for Bass and Holiday Inn, followed by the main board at Greenalls as Group Director and from 2001 as a consultant in private practice with the surveyors Gerald Eve.
On receiving the award, John said: I was really delighted to receive news of the honour. Most exciting of all is that it is great recognition for Pub is The Hub and all the fantastic licensees, voluntary advisors, pub operators, local authorities, sponsors and supporters that have been involved for the last twelve years.
I hope everyone can take great pleasure and excitement in sharing this news.
