Pubs, clubs in spotlight for safe drinking

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Pubs, clubs in spotlight for safe drinking

Publicans and licensees who actively curb binge drinking could become the toast of Glasgow.

Source Publication: 
ET

They are being urged to enter the Best Bar None awards scheme, which rewards the entertainments sector for making the city's vibrant social scene a lot safer for revellers.

Competition organisers want to hand out gold, silver and bronze gongs to bars, nightclubs, casinos and students unions where steps have been taken to crack down on binge drinking, prevent anti-social behaviour and improve safety.

The awards scheme was launched six years ago by Glasgow Community and Safety Services (GCSS) for licensed premises only in the city centre.

Since then the competition has been extended to Shawlands and the West End, with the eventual aim of encompassing all of Glasgow.

Phil Walker, GCSS managing director, said: "Glasgow's entertainment sector is second to none and the Best Bar None awards are a fantastic opportunity for licensees to earn recognition for their commitment to making their pubs, clubs and other venues safer, better and more enjoyable."

The awards have been developed by GCSS in partnership with Glasgow City Centre Alcohol Action Group, the Scottish Late Night Operators' Association and the Scottish Licensed Trade Association.

Glasgow Licensing Board and the Scottish Government support the project, which also has Strathclyde Police as a main partner.

Chief Superintendent Bernie Higgins, commander of Glasgow Central and West Division, said: "The ultimate aim is making Glasgow safer and people enjoying all the city has to offer."

The awards are sponsored by global drinks giant Diageo and fall into three categories:

l Licensed premises that shut before 1am.

l Those that continue to operate after 1am.

l Specialist venues, such as casinos and students unions.

Premises will be inspected by licensing teams and police and will be judged on measures taken to prevent crime and disorder, safeguarding public safety, preventing public nuisances, promoting public health and protecting children from harm.

Publicans and licensees have until the end of October to enter the competition, with the winners announced the next month.

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