Published: January 31, 2019
The Checkatrade.com founder was honoured at the Palace of Westminster on the 24 January 2019.
Unity Trust Bank presented Kevin Byrne with a British Citizen Award for Services to Business at the British Citizen Awards (BCAs) at the Palace of Westminster on Thursday 24 January.
The BCAs were launched in 2015, to recognise exceptional individuals who work tirelessly and selflessly to make a positive impact on society.
Kevin founded Checkatrade.com in his hallway with no investment 20 years ago when a tornado caused £10m of damage to his home town. Sadly the victims of the weather became victims of rogue traders too. So Kevin set about differentiating between the reputable and professional companies, segregating them from rogue traders and cowboy builders. Checkatrade.com has protected consumers across the UK and it is estimated he has saved consumers over £50m by avoiding these rogues.
Kevin was one of 30 medalists honoured at the prestigious ceremony. All BCA recipients have selflessly undertaken various activities in support of a number of worthy causes. Each received a Medal of Honour, inscribed with the words ‘For the Good of the Country’. The awards were hosted by TV presenter Michael Underwood who stated: “Having presented the very first British Citizen Awards, it’s a real honour to be invited back and a privilege to learn about the incredible people being recognised for their contribution to society”.
Unity Trust Bank was one of the main sponsors of the event, which is widely known as ‘The People’s Honours’. Chief operating officer Lindsey Podolanski, who presented Kevin with his award, said: “At Unity, our goal is to lend responsibly to firms and organisations that share our mission to benefit society. Kevin clearly shares our belief in the common good, and we’re proud to be able to recognise the positive impact he’s had on society through this BCA award.”
