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Residents who are commuting, on a lunch break or permanently attached to their smartphone, can now listen to Woking Best Bar None's podcast, which highlights the benefits of the local scheme for both the licensed premises that apply and the local community.

The podcast, which is available at www.wokingbbn.co.uk, was created by Eagle Radio and features some of Woking Best Bar None's prestigious panel of judges speaking about what local pubs, bars and restaurants joining the scheme can gain.

Familiar voices include Jonathan Bennett, Head of Corporate Affairs for Miller Brands UK, Louise Punter, CEO of Surrey Chambers of Commerce, Simon Matthews, Owner of Matthews Associates, Alan Clark, Surrey Fire and Rescue Service's Area Commander and Ray Morgan, Woking Borough Council's Chief Executive.

Woking Best Bar None is an award scheme sponsored by local firm, Miller Brands UK, and run by Woking Borough Council, that allows local licensed premises to be recognised as Woking's best bar, pub or restaurant, with responsible management at the heart of their practice.

Jonathan Bennett, Head of Corporate Affairs for Miller Brands UK, said: "This is exactly the type of scheme that Woking needs. Woking Best Bar None actively involves both the local community and licensed premises, to promote a safe environment for all. The podcast is interesting for residents to listen to as it lets them know what is going on in their home environment, and also, for pubs, bars and restaurants who are looking for ways in which to engage with the community and gain recognition for the good practices they have in place."

Cllr Carl Thomson, Woking Borough Council's Portfolio Holder for Licensing, said: "The podcast features key business voices in the Borough speaking to local premises about how they can benefit from getting onboard. It also allows local residents to become more familiar with what is going on in their community. For the second year now, Woking Best Bar None is seeking to create a safe night-time environment for patrons and residents. I would encourage people to have a listen to the podcast during their breaks at work or whilst commuting."

Local pubs, bars and restaurants have until Monday 15 April to apply to Woking Best Bar None and local residents can vote for their favourite venue from Wednesday 1 May in the Surrey Advertiser Public Choice Award.

To listen to the podcast or to find out more about Woking Best Bar None, visit www.wokingbbn.co.uk or www.964eagle.co.uk/taste/wokingbbn.php, contact Sam Marshall, Woking Borough Council's Licensing Officer, on 01483 743650 or email [email protected]