PUBS, clubs and hotels across Glasgow and the West of Scotland have won it through to the final of the Best Bar None Scotland Awards to find the best licensed premises in the country.

A total of eight venues in the city has been shortlisted along with nine establishments in the surround area.

The Glasgow finalists include Deoch An Dorus, Allison Arms, Yates, Cafe Source Too, The Blythswood, Campus, QMU and The Shed. The Allison Arms and The Shed have been nominated in two categories.

Other premises shortlisted include The Eagle Inn, Coatbridge and Lord of the Isles and Bar Varia, The Bishopton Inn, Fantoosh and Hamish's Hoose all Paisley, Cellar Bar and Imperial Bar both Airdrie.

A total of 54 venues across Scotland will attend the awards ceremony in the Grand Central Hotel in Glasgow in March.

Best Bar None Scotland was created by a partnership of Police Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue, suppliers, the Scottish Licensed Trade Association, the security industry and the Scottish Government to celebrate and reward licensed premises looking after their customers and boosting Scotland's night time economy.

Accreditation to the scheme shows the venue and its staff have met a level of standards which assures the public they will be able to enjoy a safe and welcoming atmosphere.

Arlene Campbell of Best Bar None Scotland said: "The Best Bar None Scotland Awards get bigger every year and have become the recognised badge of high standards in the licensed trade.

"I am delighted 54 venues in Scotlands have been chosen as finalists. This is real recognition of the effort owners and managers of local pubs, clubs and hotels put into ensuring best practice at their venues for safety, responsibility, staff training and concern for the community.

"Anyone looking for a good, safe night out in Scotland should look out for a Best Bar None venue knowing it has been through a rigorous accreditation process and demonstrated high standards across a range of important criteria."