West Lothian - Best Bar None

Pubs and clubs in West Lothian are benefiting from a new partnership between Lothian and Borders Police and West Lothian Community Safety Partnership aimed at reducing crime and the fear of crime in and around licensed premises.

Best Bar None is a UK wide scheme unique to the licensed trade. It aims to reduce alcohol related harm, disorder and crime by setting minimum standards of operation whilst rewarding safe and well managed licensed venues with the issue of an award.

Chief Superintendent Chris Griffiths from Lothian and Borders Police, said: "Best Bar None presents the licensed trade with an opportunity to help us reduce alcohol related crime and disorder in our towns and villages.  The scheme will assist us with our goal of ensuring that West Lothian is a place where people can work, live and socialise in safety."

Licensed premises taking part in the scheme are rigorously assessed and inspected by a multi agency panel of experts looking at four main themes:

• Prevention of crime and disorder
• Public safety
• Prevention of public nuisance
• Protection of children from harm

Those that meet the benchmark standard will be accredited at an awards ceremony where they will receive a plaque and a certificate to display in their premises. The award will indicate that they are among the 'Best Bar None' licensed venues in West Lothian.

Councillor John Cochrane, Chair of the West Lothian Licensing Board, said: "I fully support the very worthwhile Best Bar None initiative. It's an excellent opportunity for West Lothian Council to work in partnership with both Lothian and Borders Police and the licensed trade towards the shared goal of creating a safer environment in and around bars and nightclubs in West Lothian."