Police chief backs new bar scheme aimed at making Norwich’s night-time economy a safer place

A bar scheme aimed at making Norwich a safer and more secure place to enjoy a night out has been praised by a city police chief.

Best Bar None is a national award scheme supported by the Home Office aimed at promoting responsible management and operation of clubs, pubs and bars. The scheme, piloted in Manchester in 2003, has been adopted in more than 100 towns and cities in the UK with venues in Norwich now being urged to take part.

The Norwich scheme, which counts Vodka Revolution on Queen Street among its members, aims to show a reduction in alcohol related crime and disorder and anti-social behaviour within the city centre's night-time economy and raise awareness and safety standards within premises.

Joint managers Glenn Hoy and Steph Butcher want pubs and clubs to find out more about the Norwich scheme – which will recognise licensees who demonstrate excellent standards – at a trade launch at The Assembly Rooms on Tuesday at 3pm.

Inspector Edward Brown of Norfolk Constabulary, who manages the Nightsafe Project which aims to make the city a safer place, said: 'I am a great believer in working with the trade and the Best Bar None scheme is all about a partnership approach to raise standards and awareness of those working in the night time economy.

'To that end, this is a fantastic addition to the activities already undertaken under the Nightsafe Partnership and will be actively supported by membership including the constabulary.'

To find out more call 01603 224880 or log onto www.bestbarnonenorwich.co.uk.