Best Bar None appoints new chairman

13-Jun-2017 - Last updated on 15-Jun-2017 at 10:57 GMT

Wealth of knowledge: new BBN chairman Philip Smith

Best Bar None (BBN) has revealed its new chairman will be Philip Smith – Lord Smith of Hindhead – as the initiative moves to its next stage of growth and development.

Lord Smith brings with him a “wealth of knowledge and experience” regarding the challenges licensing premises face, BBN organisers said.

BBN is a national award scheme promoting partnership working between the pub and bar trade, the police and local authorities. Through enhanced professionalism and customer safety, the scheme aims to reduce alcohol-related crime, antisocial behaviour and health harms in the areas where it operates.

Positive impact

Lord Smith, who sat on the Licensing Act 2003 select committee review, has worked closely with the industry in his roles as vice-chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group and executive member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Non-Profit Making Members' Clubs.

Commenting on his new role, Lord Smith said he was pleased to join BBN at a time when it is increasingly important for the industry to “maintain self-regulation in demonstrating licensed premises are well-run and have a positive impact within the UK’s towns and cities”.

“There is a huge opportunity for the industry to work hand in hand with local government and build positive relationships with the police and other emergency services as we roll out more schemes across the country,” he said.

Outgoing chairman, Robert Humphreys MBE, who will return to his role as vice-chairman, said he was “delighted” that Lord Smith will lead the initiative as interest in the scheme continues to grow.