A presentation was held recently to celebrate 19 venues across Central Bedfordshire achieving Best Bar None accreditation for 2024. The national scheme, which promotes safer and more vibrant town centres, recognises venues that uphold the highest standards in responsible alcohol licensing and management.

Best Bar None was first launched in Central Bedfordshire in 2017 in Leighton Buzzard, Dunstable, and Houghton Regis. Due to its success, the scheme was expanded across the whole of Central Bedfordshire in 2022. The Council works closely with local bars, pubs, and clubs, alongside Bedfordshire Police and Fire Services, to ensure high standards of safety and professionalism in licensed premises.

Participating venues undergo a rigorous assessment process to receive accreditation, giving customers confidence that they are visiting well-managed establishments. The Council also supports the scheme through initiatives such as the radio link system, which enables venues to communicate with each other and the Council’s CCTV control room about incidents or suspicious activity. Training sessions and information campaigns, such as spiking awareness, further strengthen safety measures.

In recognition of its efforts, Central Bedfordshire Council was awarded ‘Best County’ Scheme at the national Best Bar None ceremony held at the House of Lords in February 2024.

Cllr Steve Owen, Executive Member for Community Safety, said: "This scheme has been instrumental in creating safer and more welcoming town centres across Central Bedfordshire. Through collaboration with local venues and our partners in the police and fire services, we are setting high standards and ensuring the public can enjoy a night out with confidence. We are proud of the commitment shown by our local businesses and delighted to see them receive the recognition they deserve."

Accredited Premises in 2024:

• The Nags Head, Dunstable
• The Grove Theatre, Dunstable
• The White Swan, Dunstable
• The Poynters Arms, Dunstable
• The Gary Coopers, Dunstable
• The Ewe & Lamb, Dunstable
• The Highwayman, Dunstable
• The Star, Charlton
• The Globe Inn, Linslade
• The Stag, Leighton Buzzard
• The Picture House, Leighton Buzzard
• The Conservative Club, Leighton Buzzard
• The Swan Hotel, Leighton Buzzard
• The Bell, Woburn
• The Bumble Bee, Flitwick
• The Blackbirds, Flitwick
• The Chequers, Houghton Regis
• The Yorkshire Grey, Biggleswade
• The Bridge, Shefford

For more information about Best Bar None in Central Bedfordshire visit the website.