Stafford and Stone Best Bar None

12 February 2010

Drinking establishments across Stafford and Stone town centres are to go head-to-head to compete for the title of best bar in the area.

The Best Bar None scheme was launched on February 8 in a bid to cut booze-related crime.

Bars and licensed premises in both towns are being urged to get their applications in and they will have to show that the area around the bar is safe and the premises well run.

A team of assessors from organisations, including Staffordshire Police, Stafford Borough Council and Staffordshire Fire and Rescue service will visit and scrutinise each premises.

Entrants will be scored on various criteria ranging from staff training and dealing with customers to having up-todate legal requirements such as fire risk assessments.

The overall winner will be chosen by public voting through the Newsletter and Signal 1 Radio A range of awards will be presented, including for best bar, best club and overall winner.

Councillor Patrick Farrington, cabinet member for community, told the Staffordshire Newsletter: "People want to go out and enjoy a meal or drink in Stafford and Stone and we want to help ensure the premises they are in operate to a high standard.

"This is another initiative we are working closely on with the police and other organisations to make sure our community is safe. I am sure this will have the backing of the licensed trade because having a safe place to go out for the evening is very important both to their and the local economy." Members of the licensed trade last Monday attended the launch event at Oddfellows Hall, Greengate Street.

Anyone who wants to apply should contact project organiser Clare Bradbury on cbradbury@ staffordbc.gov.uk, phone 01785 619227. Alternatively you can go to www.saferstafford.org

abv training are delighted to be associated with this project.