Birmingham launches Best Bar None
Birmingham is the latest city to launch the Best Bar None (BBN) awards scheme.
The scheme rewards licensees for good management and providing a safe and responsible environment.
Premises will be assessed on criteria such as door security, first aid, how they deal with abusive customers and the systems in place to deal with alcohol-related crime.
Unlike other BBN schemes, licensees will also have to indicate, in no more than 250 words, what their premises contribute to Birmingham's vision of being a global city with a local heart.
In addition, members of the public will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite venue.
As well as an overall winner there will be winners in six sub-categories - city centre pub, suburban pub, city centre bar, suburban bar, nightclub and hotel.
"Birmingham has a lot to offer in terms of its pubs and bars, and customers want to enjoy their leisure time in a safe and sociable environment," said British Beer and Pub Association Midlands secretary Richard Matthews.
"With the increasing emphasis on responsible retailing it is only right that those outlets that are setting high standards should be rewarded through the Best Bar None scheme."
BII chief executive John McNamara added: "Best Bar None is a very worthwhile initiative and a success story across the country, with more than 80 schemes already operating in the UK.
"It is a shining example of good partnership between the industry, police and local authorities in improving our night-time economy and encouraging our customers to enjoy the hospitality and entertainment we offer."
