Pata’s annual festive event at Royal Horseguards Hotel in central London on Thursday (8 December) was attended by more than 200 members and guests who raised the record amount of money for this year’s chosen charity.

Chris Crampton, Pata’s UK and Ireland chairman, said: “Our charity Christmas lunch is a long tradition at Pata and one we’re very proud of.  

“Over the years we’ve raised tens of thousands of pounds for various charities and thanks to the generosity of our members and their guests this year we raised a record amount of £4,500. I am overwhelmed by the generosity, despite the current UK economic crisis many of us are facing.”

Jax Shaw, director, experiences and impact at Family Holiday Charity, added: “The donations and money raised from the event will go towards helping us to achieve our mission of ensuring that every family gets the opportunity to experience tourism and take part in what this wonderful sector is all about…travel.”

Pata also handed out a couple of awards to “outstanding” members of the industry, including Trailfinders boss Mike Gooley and longstanding Pata member Ronnie Simkins.

The association’s schedule of events for 2023 will be announced early next year, including its Pata Exchange event and training sessions across the UK and Ireland.