The publicans will now face a nine-strong panel of judges, including industry veterans John Vereker and John Sharratt, British Beer & Pub Association chief executive Brigid Simmonds and head of people development at Marston’s, Joy Levesley. The six finalists are:
- Dennis Forsyth, Cheers Café Bar and Tavern in Fraserburgh, Aberdeedshire
- Steve Herbert, the Old Spot Inn in Dursley, Gloucestershire
- Cheryl Hickman, the Bull Inn in Barton Mills, Suffolk
- Marc Jones, the Sportsman in Lower Kingswood, Surrey
- Ashley and Kelly McCarthy from the Ye Old Sun Inn at Colton, York
- Annie Power from the Coal Hole in London
BII chief executive Tim Hulme said: “We have been delighted by the standard of entries this year which indicates there are many pubs out there with extraordinary standards, an amazing commitment to customers and a passion to deliver outstanding service.
“The award, sponsored by Britvic, is highly coveted and not taken lightly by any entrant, given the tough judging process, which is what gives the award its credibility. It is a big achievement for our finalists to have reached this stage, and it is exciting to be so close to finding the very best in our industry. Each of our six finalists showed strong business acumen, a clear ability to succeed at the highest level and a commitment to staff development and training. They are highly deserving of their place in the final.”
The 2013 Licensee of the Year will be announced at the 25th BII annual lunch at Grosvenor House on 14 May.