Venues in Ashford accredited for safe socialising

Bars, clubs and pubs in Ashford have been recognised for their work in keeping people safe while socialising.

The Ashford Club, Cameo, Matches Sports Bar & Social, The County Hotel, Valerie’s Wine Bar and Ashford Truck Stop – all members of the Ashford Partnership Against Crime (APAC) Pubwatch scheme – have received accreditation under ‘Best Bar None’, which is supported by the Home Office.

Reducing crime

In addition to Pubwatch, Best Bar None accreditation further demonstrates venues’ commitment to promoting safety in the night-time economy – through customer service and responsible alcohol management practices – with the aim of reducing alcohol-related crime.

Hosted by Kent Police and supported by Ashford Borough Council, an awards presentation took place at APAC’s Pubwatch meeting at the town’s Civic Centre on Thursday 9 May.

Collaborative strategies

Inspector Richard Batten from Ashford’s Community Safety Unit, who presented the awards, said: ‘Engaging with licensed premises and partner agencies is a vital part of our work to keep people who are socialising safe, by ensuring that systems are in place to deal effectively with any issues that may arise.

‘The Best Bar None awards provide an opportunity to highlight how local establishments are upholding standards to make the town a safer place in which to socialise, and for us to liaise with partners on collaborative strategies to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in the night time economy.’

Cllr Liz Wright, Ashford Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Health, said: ‘The safety of our residents and visitors has to be our highest priority. It is of the utmost importance that customers can enjoy our night time economy in a safe and comfortable environment.

‘Best Bar None is an excellent scheme and I applaud the hard work and commitment shown by those businesses who have passed the assessment and are promoting best practice. I hope others will follow suit so that all visitors will feel safe and well looked after on an evening out.’