Restaurant owner Robert is royally chuffed

Annabel Williams • Published 11 Jul 2008 09:00 0 Comments

THE man behind the restoration of a Beech Hill landmark has been honoured by royalty.

Restaurateur and entrepreneur, Robert Walton, collected an MBE from Prince Charles at a ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

Mr Walton co-owns the restored Trunkwell Mansion House, with corporate event and event organiser specialists, Corporate Leisure International.

Mr Walton founded and owns three establishments around the Reading area and is also chairman of Britain's 11,000-strong Restaurant Association.

He is a familiar figure at his restaurants, which include the contemporary gastro pub The Elm Tree in Beech Hill and the Tamarind Tree in Lower Basildon, which offers Bangladeshi and Indian cuisine.

He said: "I feel greatly honoured and not least, a little overwhelmed to have received this.

"But, most importantly it recognises the achievements and the value of the whole industry.

"It's one that I'm proud to be part of and play a role - however small."

Although Mr Walton has been Restaurant Association chairman for only a few months, he is already making his mark.

He was pivotal in launching the association's own Meal Appeal along with the Variety Club of Great Britain, which is set to raise a considerable sum for the industry's own charity, Hospitality Action, and the Variety Club's children's charities.

Mr Walton added: "It's all about giving a little back to the community."

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This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 10 Jul 08

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