Best Bar None winners unveiled

02-Feb-2017 - Last updated on 02-Feb-2017 at 10:14 GMT

Success: (l-r) British Institute of Innkeeping CEO Mike Clist; Durham BBN scheme police constable Lee Jackson; BBN scheme co-ordinator Carol Feenan; and Diageo head of alcohol in society Mark Baird

Related tags Bedfordshire

Durham won the top accolade as it was crowned best overall scheme at the Best Bar None (BBN) awards event at the House of Lords last night (1 February).

Durham's Best Best None (BBN) programme was described as a shining example of a scheme that engaged not only with the industry but also the general public. Crime figures fell consistently year on year, and public awareness and engagement had risen through innovative marketing and promotion.

Meanwhile, the Best New Scheme saw Torquay, Central Bedfordshire and Clapham go head to head, and Clapham was announced as the winner.

BBN chairman Robert Humphreys said: “Durham is an outstanding example of a BBN programme that has continued to evolve through strong leadership, widespread engagement with all agencies and positive consumer engagement. Having sustained the programme for more than 10 years, it is testament to the commitment of the team that improvement has been constant over the years.”

On Clapham's victory, Humphreys said: “An area that has a challenging evening and night-time economy has embraced more than 75% of its pubs and bars with its Best Bar None scheme in the first year. It's a fantastic start in a one of London’s liveliest areas.”

The Most Innovative Scheme award went to Exeter, which topped the judges' scorecards with its full-service app and the development of an innovative Queue Tracker (QT).

QT looks to minimise flare points outside clubs and bars through informing customers of wait times, leading to better people management and reduced incidents.

Home Office minister for vulnerability, safeguarding and countering extremism Sarah Newton MP launched the awards and presented the Outstanding Contribution award to Tracey Ford from the Sheffield Drug and Alcohol Action Team.

National BBN co-ordinator Mick McDonnell said: “Through her leadership and commitment, the BBN scheme continues to evolve and grow year on year. Tracey has been instrumental in proving that true partnership can, and does, achieve fantastic results.”

Finalists & Winners:

Outstanding Contribution:

Tracey Ford, Sheffield Drug and Alcohol Action Team, Sheffield BBN

Best New Scheme:

Clapham – Winner

Torquay – Highly Commended

Leighton-Linslade – Highly Commended

Most Innovative Scheme

Exeter – Winner

Central Bedfordshire – Highly Commended

Nottinghamshire – Highly Commended

Best Overall Scheme