Best Bar None awards launched for Kirklees

Pubs in Kirklees, West Yorkshire, are being urged to fight alcohol-related disorder by joining up to a new Best Bar None scheme.

The initiative sets a minimum standard of operation for pubs, clubs and bars and recognises and rewards high standards.

The first scheme was launched successfully in Manchester over three years ago and is now being replicated in a growing number of cities nationwide.

Lee Le Clercq, the British Beer & Pub Association's (BBPA) regional secretary in the North of England said: "The huge majority of pubs and clubs in West Yorkshire are operated by honest and lawful individuals who recognise that with a licence comes responsibility. "But we also recognise that there are rogue elements within the licensed retail business and when these operate irresponsibly, their behaviour tarnishes the reputation of the whole. Best Bar None will highlight and reward the good operators and identify and marginalise those few that let us all down."

Chief Inspector Jon Carter, from Kirklees Division's Community Safety, said: "Through the scheme, we're seeking to help licensees understand how they can reduce alcohol-related crime and disorder, minimise the harmful effects of binge drinking, whilst improving the profitability of their individual business and attractiveness of the general area."

The new initiative is being supported by West Yorkshire Police in partnership with the BBPA, Government Office for Yorkshire and the Humber, Kirklees Metropolitan Council, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and West Yorkshire Trading Standards Service.

It will be launched at Huddersfield University, Queensgate, Huddersfield, at 6.30pm on Sunday January 8.