InBrief

Coaker call to keep alcohol off streets

Hundreds more alcohol-free zones on British streets should be introduced to reduce drunkenness, Home Office minister Vernon Coaker has said. He called on councils to make greater use of the orders that allow police in designated areas to confiscate alcohol - offenders risk a penalty notice for not complying. Coaker said: "One piece of legislation I would like to see used a lot more is designated public place orders. I don't know why there aren't hundreds more of these."

Marston's wins green award

Marston's has been crowned Champions of Carbon Saving at the first Low Carbon Performance Awards. The awards are run by the Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers. Marston's has a programme to cut the amount of carbon emitted from the workplace. For example, lighting at the Bluebell in Rotherham is controlled at head office.

Bar Sport plans six new outlets

Sports bar operator Bar Sport plans to open at least six new sites in the next three years. John Donnelly, a former MD of First Choice Retail, has been appointed non-executive chairman to help oversee the expansion. Bar Sport founder Scott Murray said 30 parts of the country have been identified as suiting the firm's operation. There are also plans to franchise Bar Sports sites in the summer.

Venners launches audit division

Stocktaking company Venners has announced the launch of its new compliance audit division. It specifically aims to test areas of business where operational inefficiency can cost money. The division will be headed by Malcolm Muir, former area manager in the Venners Stock Audit division. Venners MD Trevor Heyburn said: "We have assembled a talented team who will bring to this division the right blend of experience and knowledge."

Updated trade guide published

The BII and solicitors Poppleston Allen have launched an updated version of the Licensed Trade Guide. The book covers areas such as the role of the licensing authority, licensing objectives and licensing policies. It is designed to help operators understand licensing laws. The guide is free to BII members.