On Friday, 23 May 2025, the British Tunnelling Society (BTS) hosted its 35th Annual Dinner at the iconic venue The Brewery in London. This prestigious black-tie event brought together leading professionals, engineers, and enthusiasts from across the tunnelling and underground construction industry for an evening of celebration, connection, and reflection.

 

 

Elegant beginnings

The evening commenced with a champagne reception, setting a refined tone as guests mingled and reconnected. The historic ambiance of The Brewery provided a perfect backdrop for the occasion, blending tradition with the forward-looking spirit of the tunnelling community.

 

 

A feast of fellowship

Attendees were treated to a multi-course formal dinner, where conversations flowed freely. The event was not only a culinary delight but also a powerful networking opportunity, fostering collaboration and camaraderie among industry peers.

 

 

Words of wisdom

A highlight of the evening was the keynote address by Reverend Richard Coles, whose wit and insight captivated the audience. His speech touched on themes of resilience, innovation, and the human stories behind engineering achievements—reminding everyone of the deeper purpose behind their work.

 

 

Celebrating excellence

The dinner also served as a platform to honor outstanding contributions within the field. Awards such as the Harding Prize and James Clark Medal were spotlighted, recognizing the dedication and ingenuity of tunnelling professionals, especially the rising stars among the BTS Young Members.

 

 

A community united

With over 750 guests in attendance, the BTS Annual Dinner 2025 reaffirmed the strength and unity of the UK’s tunnelling sector. It was a night of shared stories, future visions, and well-earned celebration—a testament to the society’s enduring legacy and vibrant future.