News archive

Patrons of local pubs, bars and restaurants can show their appreciation for their favourite establishment, by voting for them in the Woking Advertiser Best Bar None Public Vote Award. Everyone who takes part will be automatically entered into a free prize draw for their chance to win an iPad mini.

Many pubs, bars and restaurants have already registered for Woking's Best Bar None scheme, sponsored by local drinks firm, Miller Brands UK. The scheme, which is now in its third year, aims to promote and encourage the responsible management and operation of licensed premises across the Borough. As an accredited scheme, it seeks to recognise and reward licensed premises that provide a safe, responsible environment in which everyone can enjoy an evening out.

Voting for your favourite pub, bar or restaurant couldn't be easier - from today simply text `BBN' followed by the name of your favourite premises to 66644 (text cost the standard network rate) or visit www.wokingbbn.co.uk/vote.aspx

As well as the Woking Advertiser Public Vote Award, venues that have registered will have the chance to win one of eight other awards, chosen by an independent panel of judges. The awards are:

Over the coming weeks, venues will be visited by licensing officers from Woking Borough Council and Surrey Police to assess how well they meet current licensing and trading laws. Those meeting the Best Bar None criteria will be accredited to the scheme and allowed to display a Gold, Silver or Bronze sticker in the window of their premises.

Points will be awarded for steps taken to prevent crime and disorder; plans for ensuring public safety; dealing with public nuisance like noise, litter and waste; and demonstrating steps to protect children from harm, such as having robust proof of age policy in place.

Cllr Graham Cundy, Woking Borough Council's Portfolio Holder for Licensing, said: "Now in its third year, Best Bar None promises to be a fantastic success once again, with many venues having registered for the scheme. Gratitude must be given to both Miller Brands UK and The Woking Advertiser for their support, as not only does the scheme help make the Borough a healthy and safe place to live, work and socialise, it recognises those premises who really contribute to making a difference in our community. So now it's over to the people of Woking to vote for their favourite pub, bar or restaurant to see them honoured with the title of most popular licensed premises."

Woking Best Bar None is sponsored by Miller Brands, and supported by the Woking Advertiser, Surrey Alcohol Responsibility Initiative (SARI) and Drinkaware.

For more information about the scheme, please contact Sam Marshall on 01483 743650 or email [email protected]