WORCESTER’S Best Bar None scheme has been shortlisted for the ‘Best New Scheme’ in the prestigious Best Bar None Awards.
The next round of judging will take place in January before the winner is announced at a ceremony held in the House of Lords on February 4.
The scheme has only been running for eight months, after launching in May this year. Worcester will face stiff competition from Cumbria and Havering as to which scheme has had the biggest impact on its community in its first year of activity.
There have been a record nine regional finalists announced ahead of this instalment of the awards, with each of the three categories, Best Overall Scheme, Most Innovative Scheme and Best New Scheme, seeing a year on year increase in the number successful entries.
Worcester’s Best Bar None scheme was introduced by Worcester BID and has focused primarily on improving the previously detached relationship between the licensed trade and the local authorities.
By making the process as easy as possible for venues to join the scheme, it has already had participation from a wide range of independent, branded and managed venues.
Co-ordinator James Bell, said: “We have already seen an increase in engagement from the licensed trade in the area, from taking part in our crime reduction schemes, like Ask for Angela, to improving communication between venues over the radio and through our DISC website and mobile app.
“As partners within the scheme, we have worked with the local authorities to actively approach and encourage venues to take part in Best Bar None, utilising the free guidance and support that we can provide.
“Worcester BID has also been helpful in offering pre-application advice to businesses hoping to get accredited – making the process as user-friendly as possible.
“Together we can make a real difference, raising professionalism and standards of safety and security in the area.”
Lord Smith of Hindhead, Philip Smith, chairman of Best Bar None, said: “It is always fantastic to see such a good turnout for our annual awards. I want to highlight the importance of commending those schemes that are doing such a wonderful job.
“The impact that Best Bar None has in towns and cities today – making them safer and more desirable places to go – is relevant and valuable to the entire Hospitality Industry and it is everyone on the ground who we have to thank for that.
“It is particularly encouraging to see Worcester represented for the first time this year. it just goes to show that new schemes are continuing to pop up across the country to have an immediate impact on the local community, while building strong and proactive relationships with their local authorities.”
