Annual Conference Draws Close

The Painting and Decorating Association’s (PDA) national conference takes place at the Majestic Hotel in Harrogate later this month.

Held between the 23 and 25 October, the event offers a packed programme of events, designed to appeal to decorating professionals.

The conference starts off with the Annual General Meeting on the Friday, followed by an informal dinner in the evening.

At the AGM, Mr Neil Ogilvie of Wakefield will be appointed the new national president of the PDA.

Neil takes over the role from retiring national president Ken Bull, of Derby, who has held the chain of office for 12 months.

On Saturday, a Business Seminar is being held, where PDA Associate members will showcase their products. An optional tour of Harewood House is planned for the afternoon.

The evening’s entertainment then starts off with an awards event, where the winner of the Apprentice Paperhanger Competition, organised by the PDA, will be announced.

Finalists are Ben Brierley, 18, who works for DKN Decorators in Nottingham, Craig Martin, 21, who works for Seddon in Stoke and Dennis McGinley of DT Evans & Son in southam, near Leamington Spa.

The winner will win £300 cash, the second prize winner £200 and the third prize winner £100. All finalists will also receive a set of tools.

A short video of this year’s contest – including footage of all the entrants - has been produced and can be seen online at www.paintingdecoratingassociation.com

Finally, the evening rounds off with a prize draw and the presentation of a brand new Nissan van for one lucky delegate. Crown Trade is providing the prize, a gleaming white Nissan Kubistar 1.5dci SE.

Paul Marsden, chief executive of the PDA, said: “This year’s conference has a wide range of activities designed to showcase the skills of Association members and the industry in general.

“The presentation of the van is a great finale and we are immensely grateful to Crown Trade and all the sponsors and supporters of this year’s conference for making it such an appealing event.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors

About the PDA

The Painting and Decorating Association was established in July 2002, following a merger of the British Decorators’ Association and the Painting & Decorating Federation. The British Decorators’ Association was originally founded in 1894.

This organisation is Britain's largest trade body, dedicated to the painting and decorating trade. Members include sole traders through to large-scale national contractors employing hundreds of operatives.

Decorators looking to become members of the PDA are rigorously vetted prior to admission. Members are committed to the highest standards in health and safety practice, as well as training development.

The PDA is proud of its long history and high standards, and a registered member can be relied upon to do a good professional job at a fair price.

Press Release issued by Jane Shepherd, Shepherd PR.

Tel 01538 308685, mobile 07985 129315.

Email jane@shepherd-pr.com