Conference News July 2020 | Page 3

3 Editor’s Letter We must be heard elcome to the July issue of Conference News, which you may find a bit shorter than normal. For this month, we have concentrated on features only, rather than including news. As news has moved so fast over the last few months, the time between going to press and publication can present a very different landscape. Rest assured, though, the features we have included all touch on key subjects. Firstly, our cover story sees us talk to the team at Emirates Old Trafford, the home of Lancashire Cricket Club, which is being used as a test bed for a bio-secure environment to get the West Indies Test Series underway. What lessons can eventprofs learn from what they have done? We then look at diversity in the events industry, a subject that has been skating around the periphery of the agenda for some time, but in light of large public protests, has broken through. The events industry leads in many ways, so ensuring inclusive events and working environments should come easy. The message, though, is to not be afraid of asking uncomfortable questions. Elsehere, we discuss a new beginning for sustainable events, and Nick de Bois, the former chair of the Events Industry Board, talks to us about his new role as chair of VisitEngland. As far as the bigger picture is concerned, I hope you have found our online coverage of the Covid-19 developments helpful. It has been a humbling time for me personally as I have received lovely comments from so many of you. I will continue to represent you where I can, but together we can all make a difference. In June I asked you all to write to your local newspapers and broadcasters, and even try your luck with the nationals, and I ask you continue to do that. The key now is to amplify our voice, so don’t be afraid to doggedly pursue the press. We must be heard. Martin Fullard Editor Conference News www.conference-news.co.uk