While addressing to 200 delegates at the National Pubwatch Conference in Cardiff last week (11 February), Martin hailed Pubwatch as important to support licensees.
He said: “If I was a Prime Minister, I would say ‘just get me Pubwatch everywhere’. One of the things that Pubwatch does is joined-up thinking.”
Terrible start
Martin went on to reflect on an experience he had some 40 years ago in his first pub, which he described as “a terrible start in the licensed trade”.
He added: “It was new year and I said to someone in the pub that they had too much to drink. He picked up an A-board and put it through the window.
“I played rugby for years, am 6ft 6in and 17 stone, and was a tough nut – so I thought. But I never felt so intimidate than standing in a pub, behind the bar.”
The JDW boss also claimed it was easier for operators to deal with issues if they work together as part of a Pubwatch scheme.
Confidence builder
Martin said: “If there is a group of licensees acting together, it’s better. It is a confidence builder and you have contacts with the police and local authority. What’s not to like?”
He supported comments from South Wales Police chief constable Matt Jukes who called on licensees to not let lawyers and human rights legislation impact on tackling crime and disorder.
Jukes said: “The best lawyers will give you the confidence about being able to use the powers that you have got. Don’t any of us be terrified by concepts like human rights compliance. Be bold, be brave.”
