A scheme to make Mansfield an even safer place for a night out is being funded by Nottinghamshire County Council and the Police and Crime Commissioner for the county.

Best Bar None is a national awards scheme that has been adopted by more than 100 towns and cities across the UK.

Elsewhere its introduction has contributed to a reduction in alcohol-related violence, made people feel safer and increased trade in pubs and clubs taking part.

Nottinghamshire’s Best Bar None will initially run for three years and be administered by Mansfield District Council.

The county council’s community safety committee will contribute half the £30,000 costs of setting up the scheme, with the remainder being funded by police commissioner Mr Paddy Tipping.

He said: “I want people to have a great, and safe, night out and this scheme is one strand of our work to tackle alcohol-related crime.

“Mansfield has a thriving night-time economy and now accredited pubs and clubs will be able to prove to their customers that they manage their premises responsibly. I think this will both increase trade for the licensees and give the public confidence that they can enjoy a good night out in safe surroundings.”

Coun Mick Barton, portfolio holder for public protection at Mansfield District Council, said: “We already work hard with licensees and our partners to help make Mansfield a great night out. I’ve been keen for the Best Bar None Scheme to be introduced here for some time. We look forward to adopting the initiative and hope it is successful in Nottinghamshire as it has been across the UK.”

Best Bar None is an accreditation and awards scheme that recognises and rewards licensed premises that provide a safe, responsible setting for their customers.

To be Best Bar None-accredited, venues need to meet a nationally agreed set of standards, such as carrying out regular security reviews, managing capacity properly, proactively dealing with intoxicated people and having a robust proof-of-age policy.