October 2018: A national awards scheme committed to promoting best practise and safety in licensed premises has returned to Luton town centre – with around 15 bars, pubs, restaurants and venues already signed up to Best Bar None.
Best Bar None, which is being supported by Luton Business Improvement District (BID) and other local organisations including Luton Borough Council, Bedfordshire Police and Luton Safe, is aimed at promoting the responsible management and operation of alcohol licensed premises.
Earlier this month managers, owners and staff from licensed premises in Luton town centre gathered at The Red Lion Hotel in Market Hill to celebrate the scheme’s launch and to pledge to take part.
Over the next six weeks assessors will visit businesses that have signed up to the scheme, with an awards ceremony set to take place in November to recognise the best performing businesses.
All participants will get feedback from the Best Bar None judges, to support businesses to reduce alcohol related crime, build a positive reputation and boost footfall as well as safety.
Mick McDonnell, national coordinator of Best Bar None, said: “Best Bar None is proven to reduce alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour, to increase footfall and to create that safe, night-time economy we are looking for.”
Andy Moore, General Manager of the Red Lion Hotel, agreed: “We were delighted to host the launch of the scheme, we have signed up and hope everyone else in the town centre has taken this opportunity too.”
Gabi McKeown, owner of the Brewery Tap, said: “We are so pleased to be entering Best Bar None. This is an amazing scheme which will raise standards, reduce crime and get authorities working together.”
Charles Dutton, from Off The Wall, said: “We are delighted to be taking part in Best Bar None, a scheme which is all about raising standards. We know we’ve got it here at Off the Wall, so now’s our chance to prove it!”
Diane Quick, Director of the Luton BID and Manager of The Galaxy, which is home to The White Horse, said: “Best Bar None is a superb opportunity for businesses and comes just a few months after Luton town centre was awarded ‘Purple Flag’ status for its vibrant mix of dining, entertainment and culture. This is a superb opportunity for Luton town centre to build on its reputation for an entertaining, diverse and enjoyable nightlife.”