Tributes paid following death of Institute of Licensing chairman, Jeremy Allen

Tributes have been paid to Jeremy Allen, chairman of the Institute of Licensing, who died this week at the age of 66.

A founder of leading law firm Poppleston Allen, Allen had recently taken over as chairman from Philip Kolvin QC of 2-3 Gray’s Inn Square.

IoL President James Button described him as “one of the true greats in the field of licensing law”.

Button said: “As a founder member of Poppleston Allen he created the concept of the specialist licensing solicitors firm, and he fully deserved both his and the firm's reputation.

“As a practitioner he was exceptional, and as a commentator he was unique, influencing government and licensing authority policies, as well as steering the licensed trade in imaginative and inspiring ways. It is a true tragedy that he had only just become chairman of the Institute of Licensing and he did not have a chance to place his mark upon the IoL. That will remain forever our loss.”

The IoL President added: “At this difficult time, my thoughts are with his family and colleagues, to whom, on behalf of all the Members of the Institute of Licensing, I express my sincere condolences.”

John Gaunt, founder of law firm John Gaunt & Partners, said: "Jeremy Allen was held in the highest regard and viewed with the utmost respect by those fortunate to come across him.

"In all our dealings with him over many years, when working together, he excelled; when (on occasion) as an opponent, he was formidable; and he was always totally professional and charming. On a personal note, I shall miss his professional friendship and camaraderie.

"He is a significant loss and will be sorely missed by us all."