Tributes flowed in for Federation of Licensed Victuallers chief executive Tony Payne CBE at the association's annual conference as the trade veteran prepares to bow out next month after a 35 years' service to the licensed trade.
Payne was presiding over one of the last events in his distinguished career and received a standing ovation from 270 guests who assembled for the FLVA's annual banquet which brought the two day conference to an end.
The highlight of the evening was a recorded video film produced by Sky News which saw national trade leaders pay their tributes.
The star line-up included Enterprise chief executive Ted Tuppen, Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers chief executive Nick Bish, British Institute of Innkeeping chief executive Neil Robertson, British Beer & Pub Association communications director Mark Hastings and John Longden, director of Pub Is The Hub.
Morning Advertiser editor The PMA Team told Payne: "You are universally admired and respected throughout the trade.
"You leave some very very big shoes to fill.
"You have been a tireless advocate for your licensee members."
Enterprise Inns chief operations officer Simon Townsend described Payne as a man of "integrity, propriety and professionalism" who had always been honest, objective and fair in his approach to trade disputes.
FLVA president Dennis Griffiths said it had been a privilege to work with Payne and described him as a "trade legend."
BII trade consultant Phil Dixon said Payne would be virtually irreplaceable.
"His legacy will be a commitment by us to continue to try and make this industry a fairer place," he said.
MP Eric Illsley said the work carried out by Payne on behalf of ordinary licensees was an inspiring story.
"It is an extraordinary career dedicated to the pub industry," he said.
Former pubco executive John Whittaker, who worked on the opposite side of the fence to Payne for 33 years, said he was a man who infused wisdom and advice.
"Tony's award of the CBE remains a fitting tribute to the man who has done so much for his members and for the standing and dignity of the licensed trade," he said.
Payne, who was visibly moved by the warmth of the tributes, remained modest as he rose to thank the speakers.
"I've been proud to have been able to help so many people over the years and it is this that has made the job so rewarding.
"All I will say as I bid farewell is to offer some simple advice. Be honest with everyone and you will not go far wrong," he said