Taking home the prestigious Blue Ribband Award was Phil Hooper, corporate affairs director for Sodexo, who was congratulated with a standing ovation from the 700 guests. Reading the cititaion, Cost Sector Catering editor David Foad said: "I'm delighted to have the chance tonight to present the citation for the winner of the Blue Ribband Award, which is given each year to the person – or organisation – the judges believe has made the most outstanding contribution to our industry." Foad added that Hooper stands out "…not only for the example he's set as a talented and loyal employee but also for his tremendous willingness to get involved in the wider issues facing the catering industry and the enthusiasm he brings to that role". Colleagues went on to describe Hooper as someone who is the "embodiment of work hard, play hard and a joy to be with in both circumstances", adding that he "provides an industry perspective that is impossible to find elsewhere". Presented by comedienne and actress Helen Lederer, the remaining 14 categories were hotly contested leaving judges with the unenviable task of choosing a winner. Those going home with trophies were: Armed Services Award Sponsored by Purple Foodservice Solutions Leading Chef Richard Tame RN Chef Award Sponsored by Gourmet Classic Peter Bartholdy Contract Catering Award Sponsored by Nestlé Professional Pabulum Contract Catering District Manager Award Sponsored by Nero & Blanco Lisa Raynor Corporate Responsibility Award Sponsored by 3663 First for Foodservice Sodexo Education Award Sponsored by Premier Foods Hampshire County Council Catering Services Event Caterer Award Sponsored by Fresh RM organisers of Hotelympia Creativevents Healthcare Award Sponsored by Unilever Foodsolutions Neil Hathaway Marketing Award Sponsored by Atlantic Creative Services National Association of Care Catering (NACC) Public Sector Award Sponsored by Fretwell Downing Hospitality Alberto Crisci Social Care Award Sponsored by apetito John Figgins Stadia Award Sponsored by Manitowoc Foodservice Azure Support Services, Elior UK Unit Manager Award Sponsored by Peros Ltd Andy Davies, Elior UK University/College Award Sponsored by Brakes Amar Ahluwalia Blue Ribband Award Sponsored by Hobart UK Phil Hooper