On 20 March 2026, the National Federation of Demolition Contractors (NFDC) brought together members, partners, industry leaders, and guests at the 85th NFDC AGM & Awards at the Royal Lancaster London for a standout celebration of achievement, leadership, and the collective strength of the demolition industry.
NFDC President Adrian Corrigan said:
“This event is always a proud moment for the Federation. It allows us to come together as an industry, celebrate excellence, recognise the people who make such a difference across our sector, and reflect on the strength of our membership. This year’s AGM & Awards was a fantastic success, and I would like to thank everyone who contributed to making it such a special occasion.”
Set within an impressive atmosphere of striking visuals, a vibrant room and a strong sense of pride across the Federation, the event marked a major moment in the NFDC calendar, recognising exceptional individual achievement, celebrating the progress of the past year and looking ahead to the future with confidence.
At the centre of the occasion was NFDC President Adrian Corrigan, whose leadership, passion and clear commitment to the Federation helped shape a memorable and inspiring event. His presence reflected the values that continue to drive the NFDC forward: community, professionalism, ambition and pride in the sector.
The afternoon was also elevated by special entertainment from Mike Phillips, Wales rugby star, whose contribution during the awards brought energy, warmth and a real sense of occasion to the room.
A key highlight of the event was the presentation of this year’s NFDC Awards, shining a spotlight on the outstanding people whose skill, dedication and professionalism continue to raise standards across the demolition industry.
2026 NFDC Award winners and highly commended
Apprentice of the Year
Winner: Louis O’Brien – DDS Demolition Ltd
Highly Commended: Cory Probert – Prichard Demolition Ltd
Operative of the Year
Winner: David Lewis – Connell Brothers Ltd
Highly Commended: Artur Czarzast – J Freeley Ltd
Plant Operative of the Year
Winner: Michael Webb – Haywood Crushing Demolition Ltd
Highly Commended: Michael Murray – Connell Brothers Ltd
Supervisor of the Year
Winner: Michael Watkins – R Collard Ltd
Highly Commended: Joshua Thomas – Prichard Demolition Ltd
Manager of the Year
Winner: Laura Johnson – Demcom Ltd
Highly Commended: Darren Grainger – City Demolition Contractors (Birmingham) Ltd
The NFDC extends its warmest congratulations to all winners and highly commended recipients. Their achievements reflect the depth of talent within the membership and the high standards being delivered across the sector every day.
One of the most meaningful moments of the event was the presentation of the Outstanding Contribution Award to Lesley Ransome. A truly well-deserved honour, the award recognised Lesley’s long-standing dedication, leadership and lasting contribution to the Federation. It was a moment of genuine appreciation and respect, and one that resonated strongly with everyone in the room.
The AGM & Awards also offered attendees valuable insight from an exceptional line-up of industry speakers. A standout contribution came from José Blanco, Secretary General of the European Demolition Association (EDA), whose presentation on the Change and Evolution of the Demolition Industry gave guests an important international perspective on the opportunities and challenges shaping the sector.
Further strengthening the event’s programme was the presence of highly respected guest speakers from across influential industry bodies, including Graham Watts of the CIC, Jan Andresen of the HSE, and Adrian Maclean of the IDE. Their participation underlined the importance of collaboration across the industry and reinforced the NFDC’s ongoing commitment to working in partnership to drive standards, influence progress and support the future of demolition.
Another proud announcement during the day was the total amount raised for charities by NFDC members in 2025, £153,000. This remarkable figure is a testament to the generosity and community spirit of NFDC members, whose support continues to make a meaningful difference to charitable causes. The Federation extends sincere thanks to all those who contributed throughout the year.
From the quality of the presentations and the strength of the speakers, to the celebratory atmosphere and the visible pride across the room, the 85th NFDC AGM & Awards was a clear reflection of a Federation with real momentum. It was not only a celebration of individual and collective success, but also a reminder of the power of the industry coming together to recognise excellence, strengthen relationships and look ahead with shared purpose.
The NFDC would like to thank all members, sponsors, speakers, presenters and guests for helping make the event such a success. Their continued support, engagement and commitment are what make occasions like this so significant.
As the Federation looks ahead to the year in front, the success of this year’s AGM & Awards stands as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when the industry comes together in the spirit of excellence, unity and progress.
