Traffic light system makes for safer pubs

Police in Cambridge say a traffic light system has helped two pubs raise their safety standards.

They kept track of alcohol-related disorder and awarded points against pub and clubs when assaults were reported.

The venues with the worst record were awarded red status, amber for venues with medium safety levels and green for the safest places.

Five bars were classed as red in the last 12 months — Fez Club, Soul Tree, the Regal, the Fountain Inn and Club Niche.

The Fountain Inn and Wetherspoons pub the Regal have improved their ratings to amber and green, respectively.

Wetherspoons spokesman Eddie Gershon said: "Management and staff at the pub have worked hard to ensure its rating has gone from red to green and their positive work has been applauded by the area's police."

"Measures introduced voluntarily by the company have included toilet attendants on peak nights, extra door and floor staff as well as extra staff at the bar to cut queuing."

Inspector Marcia Nichols said the three premises which remained red were "moving in the right direction".

She said: "All premises have shown a willingness to work in partnership with police to ensure the Cambridge night-time economy is a safe and sociable environment."

The remaining venues were unavailable for comment.