A SCHEME to reduce binge drinking while tackling crime fuelled by alcohol is now in operation in Warrington.  

Best Bar None, which is a national initiative supported by the Home Office, was officially launched in Warrington last Thursday, May 11, at Showbar on Friars Gate.

Director of the scheme Mick McDonnell hosted the event which was attended by David Watson, regulatory services unit manager at Warrington Borough Council, assistant chief constable Darren Martland and police officer Danny Gee from Cheshire Constabulary. 

More than 30 representatives from licensed premises, who are keen to take part in the scheme, attended the launch. 

Following the pilot of Best Bar None in Manchester in 2003, police discovered that standards improved in the evening and night-time economy.

The programme has since been adopted by 75 towns and cities across the UK.

In order to take part in the scheme, the venue must meet a set of minimum standards.

Neil Sparkes, Best Bar None chairman, said the aim is to provide a 'safe enjoyable experience in the town centre' while driving standards in the town centre's licensed trade.

He said: "The town has been painted in a negative light for some time even though violent crime and disorder has been on a sharp decline over the last five years.

"This is down to cooperation between the licensed trade, police and council. 

"This is something the scheme hopes to improve further going forward."

Richard Spedding, community safety partnership inspector at Cheshire Police, hopes this will continue to improve the positive relationships between the force and drinking establishments in the town centre.

He said: "We welcome the launch of the Best Bar None scheme in Warrington. 

"This is a demonstration of the responsibility and willingness by the trade sector to ensure the Warrington night-time economy is a safe and enjoyable experience for all."

David Watson, the council's regulatory services manager, said: "It’s important that everyone works together to make Warrington an attractive, vibrant and safe place to visit in the evening.

"We are delighted that the licensed trade have taken the initiative and launched the Best Bar None Scheme, which has been shown to make a real difference. 

"We look forward to supporting the scheme and to helping to make it a success."