Best Bar None Awards are back for 2018

The search is on to find the top pub, bar or entertainment premise in the East Riding to compete against the best in the UK.

The 2018 Best Bar None awards, which are now in their fifth year, were formally launched on Tuesday, 20 February at Bridlington Spa, attended by licensees from among the 850 pubs and licensed premises across the East Riding.

Best Bar None is a national scheme which is held every other year and aims to promote the responsible management and operation of alcohol-licensed premises.

The scheme is backed by the Home Office and aims to reward licensees who:

help reduce alcohol-related crime and disorder and anti-social behaviour
build a positive relationship between licensed trade, the police and the local authority
provide a safe and enjoyable environment for customers
help reduce the harmful effects of binge drinking
improve their knowledge and skills to improve their business and the local area.

This year there are six award categories:

best bar (town)
best pub (town)
best pub/bar (rural)
best food led premises
best entertainment/leisure venue
best independent venue.

There will also be two special recognition awards for best new entrant and best public health initiative.

Premises that choose to enter the awards will be assessed by trained assessors and those that meet all the essential criteria will be awarded accreditation status.

The top five premises in each category will then be put forward to an independent judging panel that will score the best in category and the overall winner of the Best Bar None scheme, the winner of which will be announced at an awards ceremony in November.

Councillor Shaun Horton, portfolio holder for community involvement and council corporate services at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “The bar and leisure industry is an important part of the evening economy of the East Riding.

“The Best Bar None scheme recognises those who run licensed premises to the highest standards of safety and promote the licensing objectives.

“We are looking for premises that have high standards in place and take pride in their service, as well as making a positive contribution to the local community.”

For more information about the scheme, or to apply, go to www.eastriding.gov.uk/best-bar-none or emaillicensing@eastriding.gov.uk