North West

Liverpool City Centre Pubwatch

Liverpool is developing at break-neck speed in the countdown to becoming European City of Culture in 2008. A safe and secure

leisure industry is seen as a vital to the

success of the city's celebrations next year.

Millions of extra tourists are set to pour into the city for the celebrations and the

local pub and bar industry has already been working hard to ensure they enjoy an

unforgettable experience.

At the heart of things

Liverpool City Centre Pubwatch has been at the heart of initiatives introduced to set new benchmarks in social responsibility standards. Formed in November 2005, the group has been responsible for orchestrating a major sea-change across city-centre venues. More than 130 outlets are members of the watch, operated in conjunction with the

police and the Chamber of Commerce.

In place are strict controls on glass and bottle safety, door supervisors, responsible drinking and retailing, security, first aid, football intelligence and radio links.

Despite being in its infancy, the pubwatch has had a dramatic effect on drink-related crime and offences have dropped to an all-time low.

Pubwatch secretary Joe Curran says: "We are changing the face of city-centre licensed premises. Everyone has pulled together to raise standards, which have cut down alcohol-fuelled disorder and crime."

Joe (shown centre in the photo, with business crime direct manager Peter Jones, right, and Liverpool Chamber of Commerce chief executive Jack Stopforth, left) says watch members worked hard to help launch the city's Best Bar None awards scheme, which recognises responsible retailers.

Hitting drink-drivers

The group has also worked closely with police officers who issue interim banning orders to anyone arrested in the city for a drink-related offence, including drink

driving. The scheme is believed to be the first of its kind in the UK.

Joe comments: "We have come a long way in a short time, but we are not resting on our laurels because we know the challenges that City of Culture status will bring.

"Our work is not just geared to this one year, important though it is, but hopefully will leave us a secure foundation and a

legacy for the future."