CAMRA chair stepping down with immediate effect

He has resigned his position as CAMRA chairman and national executive member in order to concentre on treatment and recovery from his illness.

The organisation’s national executive will now conduct an election process to choose a new chair.

Antona has served as a CAMRA volunteer for more than 20 years, giving his time to his local branch in Burton-on-Trent as well as serving as a regional director, national director and most recently as CAMRA chairman for the past five and a half years where he took over from Jackie Parker​.

Privilege to serve

In a message to CAMRA members, Antona said: “It has been a privilege to serve as CAMRA chairman.

“It has been a challenging time for the organisation but we have emerged from Covid and the cost-of-living crisis in as good a position as possible, thanks to the tireless dedication of our active members and volunteers and the support of the wider membership across the country.”

Vice-chairman Ash Corbett-Collins expressed thanks to Antona on behalf of the national executive and wider membership for the time and dedication he has shown to the campaign over this long involvement with the organisation.

Speedy recovery

Corbett-Collins added: “Most recently, he steered the organisation through the challenges of Covid and the cost-of-living crisis.

“We all wish him a speedy recovery from his illness and look forward to welcoming him back as an active member of CAMRA soon.”

Chief executive Tom Stainer thanked Antona for his work over the years in the role.

He said: “The entire CAMRA staff wishes Nik and his family well as he rightly focuses on treatment and recovery.

“He has led the organisation through one of its most challenging periods and we’d like to thank him for all his hard work in an incredibly difficult and often thankless role.”