Licensees raise the bar on standards

BEST Bar None . . . the safety scheme is launched at the Oldham Coliseum by (from the left) Richard Kubilius, Supt Chris Sykes, Carla Jones from the Squire Knott, Joe Curran, Britvic customer development manager John Kirrane, Squire Knott manager and Pub Watch chairman Caroline Davanzo and violence reduction co-ordinator DS John Murdoch

THE 100th Best Bar None scheme has launched in Oldham to create a safe and crime-free environment for revellers.

The initiative for pubs, clubs and bars is successful across the UK and will now reward Oldham town centre’s best venues for preventing trouble.

Supported by Greater Manchester Police, Oldham Council and Oldham’s Drug and Alcohol Action Team, the project recognises licensed premises that provide good management, a safe and enjoyable environment, discourage binge drinking and prevent alcohol-related crime.

Application forms have been sent to every town centre venue. Each applicant will be judged on criteria, including door policy, crime prevention strategy, emergency procedures and drink and drug policies by qualified assessors.

Their findings will be put before a panel of local judges, including police and council representatives.

Every entrant who meets the minimum standard for safety will receive accreditation, meaning they can use the official Best Bar None logo on promotional advertising to let the public know they are working hard to keep customers safe.

An award ceremony next year will announce accredited venues and category and overall winners.

Scheme co-ordinator Joe Curran has already won a national award for his “raising the standards, raising the bar” strapline for the Oldham scheme that will now be used across the UK.

Oldham Chief Superintendent Tim Forber said: “There has been some great work in the town centre to ensure people have a safe, enjoyable night and this has resulted in a 22 per cent drop in alcohol-related crime.

“Best Bar None is an opportunity for us to showcase this success and also focus on the areas that still need improvements, making sure that each pub, club and bar continues to work with us and is doing all they can to fight the problems caused by binge-drinking and alcohol-fuelled crime.

“I am confidant that every venue in the town centre will meet accreditation and we can all come together in the New Year to celebrate.”

Councillor Rod Blyth said: “Feedback on the scheme from local licensees has been very positive and this will be another important means by which we can promote and celebrate excellence in operational performance whilst boosting the local night time economy.”

The launch took place at Oldham Coliseum Theatre, which is an ambassador for drink awareness.