Search is on for ‘the best bar none’

The Best Bar None Award Scheme 2012 is being launched at County Hall, Beverley, on Monday.

Pubs across the East Riding are being urged to enter five categories including best rural community pub, and best family friendly pub or bar.

The national awards scheme provides a benchmark for responsible management practices in licensed premises and aims to reward well-run and safe venues.

Winners will be handed their awards at a presentation in November. All those deemed as making the grade will be listed on a dedicated website.

Coun Jane Evison said: “Best Bar None plays a key role in getting the licensing trade and authorities working in partnership and seeing ‘both sides of the coin’, the awards are a great opportunity to work towards a common purpose, raising the profile of local business and our area’s night-time economy.”

Paul Davison, chief superintendent at Humberside Police, said: “At a time when our licensees are feeling the strain of the current economic climate, we welcome the fact that they are asking to participate in the awards scheme and already have received initial interest from the trade.

“Putting customer safety and security at the forefront of their operations will be a crucial part of the assessment process.

“But of equal importance this time will be looking at how the problems that alcohol abuse poses to people’s health and the harm it causes to individuals and communities through alcohol related crime is being addressed by the license holders.”

Information sessions are being held on Thursday March 22 at 7pm, at Goole Leisure Centre and Wednesday March 28 at 7pm, at The Spa Bridlington.

Application forms are available from the licensing team on 01482 396297 or [email protected]. They need to be returned by April 15.