National Pubwatch recognises licensee and police officer in annual awards

The awards were presented by Sir Peter Fahy, chief constable of Greater Manchester Police, at the Manchester-based event.

Outstanding Contribution Award​

Alan Dove, commercial manager of Bournemouth University’s student union and operator of university venue the Old Fire Station, was given the Outstanding Contribution Award.

NPW chair Steve Baker said Dove was awarded for keeping strong control of alcohol promotions, ensuring the scheme maintains its commitment to Town Watch policies and standing up for membership when public bodies exceed their authority.

In his role as chairman of Bournemouth Town Watch, Dove also implemented a ‘Bournemouth by Night’ report, which has been adopted by the council and is the focus for the Night Time Economy Strategy Group.

'Steady direction'​

NPW regional representative Jon Shipp said: “Alan’s involvement in everything connected to the night time trade and Town Watch is complete, always willing to assist venues and maintain a steady direction for all members.

“He also embraces the public bodies and encourages strong co-operation and commitment from all parties. He always brings energy, enthusiasm and intellect to the Town Watch meetings, striving to see continued improvement in Bournemouth’s night time economy.”

Malcolm Eidmans Award​

The Malcolm Eidmans award was given to Richard Higgin from Cumbrian Police, who has been involved with the Carlisle City Pubwatch Scheme for the past 10 years, and was instrumental in setting up a formal committee system for the group and introducing a computerised photograph poster system of people banned from the scheme.

He was also heavily involved in the introduction of Best Bar None in Carlisle, now in its sixth year, which spawned local street pastors and taxi marshalls.

'Voice of reason'​

Mike Vose, chair of Carlisle City Pubwatch, said: “I have been involved with Carlisle Pubwatch for over 10 years and remember when Sergeant Dusty Higgins started attending the Committee meetings. Right from the off you could tell he would listen and absorb information and had a wonderful calm persona.

“Over the years he has been the voice of reason, and has never failed to help when we have asked for advice. His professionalism, his readiness to listen, and his smile have earned him the respect of the licensed trade City wide and I think it would be fair to say that the Carlisle Pubwatch scheme would not be as effective without the help and support he gives us”.

Diageo National Pubwatch Awards ​

Meanwhile , the Diageo National Pubwatch Awards have been launched for the third year running.

The awards aim to recognise the efforts of local Pubwatch schemes throughout the UK.

The application process will open on 8 April and run until 18 July. Finalists will be invited to a Parliamentary reception on 30 October 2014 held in the House of Commons Dining Room, hosted by Pubs Minister Brandon Lewis.

Speaking at today’s National Pubwatch Conference, chair Steve Baker said: “This is a really fantastic opportunity for you to get public recognition for your local scheme and I would urge you to seriously think about making an application.

“I know that previous finalists such as Blackpool Pubwatch, which coincidentally is also in one of the 20 Local Alcohol Action Areas, have enjoyed the experience of attending the event and they have really benefited from the media exposure that this award gives to their work.”