More than 440 guests attended a highlight of The Society's calendar, the annual Gala Dinner at The Peninsula London on Saturday.
The sell-out event attracted more than 100 members of The Society of the Golden Keys of Great Britain and the Commonwealth, together with business affiliates and international guests.
Organised by Society Social Chairperson, Antony Lynch, guests enjoyed a champagne reception, a three-course dinner, entertainment and a charity raffle.
A New President for The Society
Toru Machida, who has served as President of The Society for four years, led the proceedings; during which he handed over the role to Binoy Nair, Head Concierge at St James' Court London, A Taj Hotel.
Mr Machida said: "It was an absolute honour to serve as President of The Society of the Golden Keys of Great Britain and the Commonwealth for the past four years. It was truly a privilege to work with passionate, inspiring, and dedicated committee members.
"Congratulations to the new President, Binoy Nair; I have no doubt the GB section will continue to thrive under his leadership."
Mr Nair said: "I am extremely proud and honoured to be the 22nd President of The Society of the Golden Keys of Great Britain and The Commonwealth. I will continue the work of my predecessor, Toru Machida and take the Society to new heights!"
To find out more, read our interview with Binoy Nair.
An Epic Fundraiser
Sponsored by The Tourism Media Group and Golden Tours, the event included a bumper raffle, which raised more than £20,000 in aid of the Society's chosen charity, Hospitality Action. Hospitality Action was established in 1837 to offer vital assistance to all who work, or have worked within hospitality in the UK.
Some of those enjoying the Gala Dinner. Photos: Thimira Salwathura.
Mr Lynch said: "I would like to thank all the collaborators who came together to create such a fantastic evening. The venue and service was exceptional, with fantastic entertainment from the Funk City Band.
"Thanks to the generosity of so many, we raised £20,014 for Hospitality Action which offers a crucial lifeline to people of all ages, working and retired, from the hospitality industry."
Honorary Life Membership
During the evening, Honorary Life Membership was presented to retired Head Concierge, Tony Verri and The Tourism Media Group's Senior Business Development Manager, Charlotte Johnson-Last.
Tony Verri
An overwhelmed Mr Verri said: "I retired as Head Concierge at JW Marriott Grosvenor House London after 35 years there.
"I now enjoy being the retired members' judge for the 'Concierge of the Year Awards' when called upon.
He added: "I was very fortunate to have worked with and known some of the almost legendary Concierge and had some of them as mentors."
Charlotte Johnson-Last
Mrs Johnson-Last, who was a member of the Business Affiliates Committee for 10 years, most recently as Chairperson, said: "I feel very privileged to have worked alongside some incredible people over the years, including Toru as President for the past four years.
"It was an absolute honour to receive this award; I was both shocked and delighted."
She added: "I would like to congratulate Binoy; I'm sure he too will make a great President.
Mr Lynch said: "I would like to thank all the collaborators who came together to create such a fantastic evening. The venue and service was exceptional, with fantastic entertainment from the Funk City Band."
He added: "Thanks to the generosity of so many, we raised £20,014 for Hospitality Action which offers a crucial lifeline to people of all ages, working and retired, from the hospitality industry."
Society members and guests at the 2025 Gala Dinner. Photos: Thimira Salwathura.