Conference to focus onpub safety

National Pubwatch is to hold its first-ever national conference to promote "concrete" ideas for improving pub safety. The National Pubwatch in the Community Conference will take place from 9.30am to 4pm at the Old Session House, London EC1, on Tuesday 4 November. It aims to "share good practice in achieving a safe, secure social drinking environment in licensed premises, helping to reduce crime and disorder". But honourary secretary Malcolm Eidmans insisted the event, sponsored by Budvar and Unique Pubco, must be more than just a talking shop. "We've got to deliver a conference that comes up with something," he stressed. The group is inviting high-profile guests to speak at the conference, including home secretary David Blunkett and his Conservative shadow, Oliver Letwin. They also expect speeches from key trade figures. Eidmans is urging all groups with an interest in the safety aspect of pubs to attend one of the workshops at the conference. Tickets for the conferenceare £75 or £25 for Pubwatch members. For more informationcall 01707 650095 or email National.Pubwatch@btinternet.com.