The Claude J Brown prizes

The UK’s Institute of Demolition Engineers is looking for entrants for the 2008 Claude J Brown prize for the best paper submitted to the Institute before the closing date of 31 August 2008. There are two categories – Best Paper, which is open to all, including non-members of the institute and entrants from outside of the UK. Submissions, however, must be made in English. The second category is for the Best Paper from a student member of the Institute. The winning papers in both categories will each receive a prize of £1,000.

There is no hard and fast title or subject for papers, but they should cover subjects of relevance to demolition engineering and be work researched by the candidate for the prize. A British Standard, BS6187: 2000 “Code of Practice for Demolition” can be used as guidance as to subjects that are suitable. Submitted papers should be around 6,000 words in length and contain illustrations as required, a bibliography and a list of references. A signed statement should also accompany submissions to the effect that the content is the candidates' own work.

The Prizes are made in honour of Claude J Brown, who was a leading figure in the UK demolition industry from the early 1950s right through to his death in 2006. He was one of the founding fathers of the UK’s National Federation of Demolition Contractors, serving as NFDC president in 1966. He then accepted the role of convention and social secretary, a position he occupied for more than 30 years.