BEST Bar None (BBN), a pub accreditation scheme is launching in Weymouth this month to ensure a safer drinking environment in licensed premises throughout the borough.

Weymouth and Portland Borough Council, Dorset Police and Pubwatch are working together to encourage as many bars, pubs and nightclubs to take part in the nationally recognised scheme, which promotes responsible management and operation of alcohol-licensed premises.

The aim of BBN is to reduce alcohol-related crime and disorder in towns by building a positive relationship between the licensed trade, police and local authorities.

The scheme, launching on March 19, also highlights how operating more responsibly can increase the profitability of an individual business and make a certain area more appealing to customers.

Weymouth and Portland Borough Council’s Business Licensing Manager, Sue Moore, said: "The scheme is about reducing alcohol-related crime, sharing best practice and improving industry standards, as well as recognising those establishments that are working hard to raise these standards.

"This is a positive initiative for Weymouth and Portland aimed at ensuring that everyone can enjoy a safe night out when visiting our vibrant local pub and club scene."

Premises that achieve the accreditation will be able to use the Best Bar None logo and display a plaque, much in the same way as the food hygiene rating scheme already adopted widely throughout the hotel and hospitality industry.

BBN is currently running in over 100 locations across the UK and is now being taken up in parts of Europe, USA, New Zealand and Australia.

This is a positive initiative for Weymouth and Portland aimed at ensuring that everyone can enjoy a safe night out when visiting our vibrant local pub and club scene."

Premises that achieve the accreditation will be able to use the Best Bar None logo and display a plaque, much in the same way as the food hygiene rating scheme already adopted widely throughout the hotel and hospitality industry.

BBN is currently running in over 100 locations across the UK and is now being taken up in parts of Europe, USA, New Zealand and Australia.