THE AFI AWARDS 2024

 THE AFI AWARDS 2024

The third annual AFI Awards took place this October at the iconic Saint James’ Park, home of Newcastle United Football Club. Members and guests gathered to celebrate the achievements and accomplishments of professionals in the fencing industry, courtesy of the Association of Fencing Industries (AFI).

The AFI has made significant strides in recent years to raise the profile of fencing professionals across agricultural, domestic, industrial, and security sectors. By promoting safety, quality, and professionalism, the organization ensures its members stay updated with technical advancements, enhances skills through Best Practice Days, and serves as a central hub for industry news. Members adhere to a strict Code of Practice that emphasizes high standards, and the AFI represents their interests with influential bodies like the British Standards Institute, National Highways, FISS/CSCS, and more.

Event Highlights

The day began with refreshments and networking opportunities, followed by an optional behind-the-scenes stadium tour, which proved popular. A Northumbrian-themed lunch set the stage for guest speaker Ray Parlour, former professional footballer and broadcaster. Known for his ten England caps and 333 Premier League appearances for Arsenal, Ray entertained the audience with humorous stories from his career.

The Awards Ceremony

The ceremony featured 11 award categories, including the introduction of the Apprentice of the Year award to honor young talent and the importance of apprenticeships.

Winners and Categories:

Agricultural & Equine Contractor of the Year:

Winner: Samson Fencing (Sponsored by Tornado)

Shortlisted: HVB Fencing, Rob Bell Fencing

Domestic Contractor of the Year:

Winner: Unique Fencing (Sponsored by Durapost)

Shortlisted: Knight Fencing, Paine & Son Fencing

Gates & Barriers Contractor of the Year:

Winner: Littlewood Group (Sponsored by DHF)

Shortlisted: Alpha Rail Ltd, SCS Automation UK

Highways & Railways Contractor of the Year:

Winner: Saferoad VRS Ltd (Sponsored by Smart Awards)

Shortlisted: Homegrown Timber (Rail) Ltd, Procter Contracts

Industrial Contractor of the Year:

Winner: Knight Fencing (Sponsored by IAE)

Shortlisted: ABC Fencing Ltd, Wyatt & Sons Fencing Ltd

Security Contractor of the Year:

Winner: Crime & Fire Defence Systems Ltd (Sponsored by CLD)

Shortlisted: C & W Fencing Ltd, Cousins Fencing

Sports & Education Contractor of the Year:

Winner: Boundary Fencing & Gate Services (Sponsored by Zaun)

Shortlisted: Lemon Fencing Ltd, Perimeter Solutions

Temporary & Hoarding Contractor of the Year:

Winner: City Hoardings (Sponsored by Saferoad VRS)

Shortlisted: Procter Contracts, Topan Group Ltd

Apprentice of the Year:

Winner: Benjamin Budgen, Cousins Fencing (Sponsored by Siddall & Hilton)

Shortlisted: Campbell Redpath (Knoxfield Estate Services), Jack Hobden (Littlewood Group)

Lifetime Achievement Award:

Winner: John Smith

A respected figure in the fencing industry and civil engineering, John Smith has been a driving force behind improvements in training, quality schemes, and standards. At 80 years old, his dedication to the industry has earned him this richly deserved honor.

Closing Thoughts

The AFI Awards 2024 was a resounding success, thanks to the hard work of the AFI team, led by Victoria Walker, who ensured the event ran seamlessly. The contribution of sponsors was also vital in making this celebration possible.

For more information on the AFI or becoming a member, visit: www.afiorg.uk.

Damien