Former MV Sports MD Phil Ratcliffe received a BTHA Outstanding Contribution Award earlier today (Wednesday June 25) at the annual BTHA Toy Industry Day
The prestigious award was presented to Phil for his outstanding contribution to enhancing and developing awareness and knowledge of the importance of play for the good of children of all ages, through the development of the BTHA’s Make Time 2 Play campaign.
The Association recognised Phil’s transformative influence and driving force, which meant that after austerity measures in the 2010s pushed play and children down the political agenda, the BTHA played some part in filling a gap.
Earlier today, during the BTHA AGM, there were also planned changes to the BTHA Officers. Phil Ratcliffe was replaced as President by Jon Diver, Simon Pilkington’s term as Chairman came to an end, and he became Vice-President, Colin Houlihan was welcomed as Chairman, and Jacqueline Taylor-Foo as Vice-Chairman. Phil was thanked for 23 years of service as a dedicated member of the BTHA Council.
Roland Earl, Director General at the British Toy & Hobby Association, said: “Phil has been a valued member of the BTHA Council for over two decades now, and a long-time champion of the work of the BTHA and play. I’d like to thank him on behalf of the BTHA for all of the support he has given to the BTHA, and the industry, over the years. This award is very well deserved. We look forward to working with Phil in some new ways in the future.”
During the Industry Day, attendees heard from Ashley Rolls of KPMG, who gave a presentation on the current retail climate, as well as political figure Alastair Campbell, who provided insights on the current political world.
 at the annual BTHA Toy Industry Day.){kind=link}