Local pubs, clubs and bars hit gold standard

More Renfrewshire pubs, clubs and bars than ever before are hitting the gold standard under the national Best Bar None awards.

Twelve out of the 13 venues which applied secured a gold award with one receiving a silver. The judges were so impressed with five of the applicants that they have been put forward as finalists in the national Best Bar None competition as well. The five are: Bar Varia, the Bishopton Inn Hotel, Hamishes’ Hoose, Fantoosh and the Lord of the Isles.

The licensees’ of the venues received their awards at a ceremony in Renfrew Town Hall on Monday 11 January.

The three most outstanding premises were also nominated for specialist national awards for; the Best Use of Innovation, the Best Public Health Initiative and being the Heart of the Community.

Councillor Alex Murrin, Convener of Renfrewshire’s Licensing Board, said, “It is excellent to see Renfrewshire’s pubs, clubs and bars working with the council and the police to deliver top quality entertainment venues, where everyone can enjoy a safe night out in clean, comfortable surroundings.

“Renfrewshire is building a reputation as a key location for festivals and events and providing gold standard venues is an important part of promoting the area, particularly as we bid to be the UK’s City of Culture in 2021.”

Best Bar None is a scheme designed to raise standards and make sure people can enjoy a night out in venues which are clean and safe. The awards also encourage pubs, clubs and bars to be good neighbours and work with Police Scotland and Renfrewshire Council to prevent crime and disorder.

The venues were assessed during October and November 2015 and judged against national standards. Best Bar None awards are based on the five licensing objectives which are to:

• Prevent crime and disorder
• Secure public safety
• Prevent public nuisance
• Protect and improve public health
• Protect children from harm.

Below is a full list of the awards: