in 1990, gill founded the royal anniversary trust, which was established to organise national celebrations to mark the 40th anniversary of elizabeth ii's accession in 1992. among the trust's other stated aims were "to promote industry and commerce and the advancement of education". he subsequently served as its chairman of executive (1990–2010) and chairman (2002–10). in 1993, the remaining trust's remaining funds were used to create the queen's anniversary prizes for higher and further education, of which gill was also chairman until 2010.