Licensees to share barred customer details with Pubwatch scheme

Newly launched Pubwatch Online in Preston, in partnership with Preston City Centre Business Improvement District, unites licensees in an online forum, sharing information about barred customers, photographs, messaging, contact with police and best practice advice.

Chair of National Pubwatch Stephen Baker said: “It's about addressing the threats to a business from the types of people who could cause serious damage. As we have seen in many other areas of the UK, Pubwatch can make a significant impact on safety in licensed premises and the wider areas of our town centres.”

National Pubwatch supports more than 650 schemes and provides newsletters, conferences, awards, regional representatives, posters and window stickers.

Baker continued: “That means many thousands of licensees are working together to make pubs safer places to work and socialise. I would urge all Preston licensees to join their local scheme and contribute to its success.”

National Pubwatch is supporting street pastors as an “invaluable” service to help vulnerable people on nights out.

Pastors are volunteers who pay for their own training and uniform. National Pubwatch is sponsoring a street Pastor scheme in Westminster.

A spokesman said: “Their work can have huge benefits to the pub and hospitality trade as they provide an important layer of support to people as they move about the town centre or travel home.”

Pubwatch described events during Westminster pastors’ recent patrol.

Volunteers helped a group of three women who had been drinking heavily, one of which had to be taken in an ambulance. Pastors assisted the women, providing water, tissues, and a sick bag. They then gave directions to use public transport home for the remaining two.

For more on Pubwatch visit: www.nationalpubwatch.org.uk