Bernard Brindley: Tributes pour in following news of his death

A long-standing publican, Brindley was an active member of the BII and other trade organisations for many years. He was the central region chairman of the organisation before becoming its overall chairman in 2012.

Key industry figures have paid tribute to Brindley and his work:

Tim Hulme, chief executive, BII​

“We are all deeply shocked at this sad news and all our thoughts are with Bernard’s family. He had played a pivotal role in the transformation the BII has been undergoing over the last year and was liked and respected by everyone who knew him. He will be missed greatly by all of us at the BII.”

Brigid Simmonds, chief executive, British Beer and Pub Association​

“Bernard was a hugely hard-working and professional publican who was dedicated to using his many years of experience to help others. As chairman of BII and of the Pub Governing Body he gave unfailingly of his time and expertise. Bernard was kind, intrinsically honest and used all his integrity to help others. I always welcomed his advice and enjoyed working with him. Bernard will be very much missed by all of us at the BBPA.” 

David Hawksworth, president, Federation of Licensed Victuallers Associations​

“I’ve known Bernard for the last 15 years and in the last year I’ve had the privilege of working with him and the BII very closely. He was such an amazing person who gave a massive input into this industry and he will be sorely missed. I would like to send my condolences to Lorna, his wife, and all the family on behalf of the FLVA.”

Jim Brewster, chief executive, Licensed Trade Charity​

“He was a great inspiration in our organisation and had a reputation for effective governance of the charity. Bernard became vice chair of the charity’s Support & Care committee, ensuring that as many individuals could be supported through their difficulties. In addition, Bernard donated many hours as one of our Volunteer Visitors, visiting many individuals from the trade every year who had hit a difficult time. His sympathetic and caring approach was a great virtue. Bernard will be missed by all his colleagues here at the Licensed Trade Charity.”

Mike Clist, tenanted director, Fuller's​

"I was deeply shocked when I heard the very sad news at the weekend and my thoughts are with Bernard's family. I have worked with Bernard for a good number of years originally as part of BIIBAS and latterly the Pub Governing Body, and of course as a council member of the BII. Only last week I spoke to Bernard several times and I just cannot believe he is no longer available to discuss industry matters with. I for one will sorely miss him and the advice he was always happy to share with me. However, I am just a small fish in a big pond and it is the industry that has lost a great man and will be all the poorer for the loss."

Phil Dixon, pub trade consultant​

“I have known Bernard for 30-plus years; he was a close friend and colleague and a terrific publican. It was his significant contribution to our industry in many ways that made him the most respected and finest licensee of his generation.”

Nick Bish, former chief executive, Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers​

"Bernard was a stalwart champion of the licensed trade and licensees within it. He was typical of many who gladly add external responsibilities to the day job and he gave a great deal to the BII over the years. Those who knew him well saw him provide unassuming but resolute leadership in a number of contentious areas where his only endeavour was to stand up for a fair deal for professional licensees - and for the wider reputation of pubs and publicans. A good man doing a good job - he will be missed."

Many others who knew him have also tweeted their condolences:

@morningad@BIIandBIIAB Shocked & upset to hear we have lost a great friend with the passing of Bernard Brindley - he'll be sadly missed

— Kate Hempsall (@katehempsall) April 22, 2014

Just learned the terribly sad news that BII Chairman Bernard Brindley has passed away. He was a friend and mentor. Thoughts with his family.

— Mark J Daniels (@markinapub) April 21, 2014

@BIIandBIIAB Sorry to hear the very sad news. Bernard Brindley championed our industry, was passionate about pubs and pub people.

— abv Training (@abvtraining) April 22, 2014