More than 250 people flock to Hilton Hotel in Newcastle for National Buying Group event on December 2.
The conference brought together some of the construction industry's leading suppliers and manufacturers and included a drinks reception sponsored by Bradstone, formal black tie dinner and Supply Chain Awards.

The evening began with a review of 2008 from Allan Durning, NBG executive chairman, followed by Steve Robinson from J T Dove Ltd, who gave the supply chain address.

Winners on the night included Hanson Group as Supplier of the Year, Aggregate Industries and Bostik were awarded Heavyside and Lightside Suppliers of the Year respectively, and Severn Timber was awarded Timber Based Products Supplier of the Year for the second year running.

David Woolford of Lafarge Plasterboard received a Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by Nigel Higgins, in recognition of his contribution to the industry.

The BMF also scooped a special industry award recognising 100 years of building excellence, presented by Allan Durning.

A light-hearted view was adopted by Borat impersonator Kazak Dan, who interviewed NBG central chairman Martyn Rees from Country Building Supplies with some amusing anecdotes about the building trade, followed by some rather unusual dancing (see above).