A CITY’S pubs and clubs have been rewarded for raising the bar when it comes to responsible drinking.

Accolades have been presented to licensed premises in Durham committed to maintaining good order while providing customers with a safe and enjoyable experience.

Jointly promoted by Durham Police and the county council, the annual Best Bar None (BBN) awards have celebrated responsible management and operation of licensed premises since 2008.

The Library, in Saddler Street, was named Overall Best Premises, after also scooping the Best Alcohol-Free Bar title, awarded for its extensive offering of alternatives to alcoholic drinks.

A voluntary scheme, it is open to all licensed premises in the city centre area.

It attracted 33 applicants, including commercial premises and college bars.

In order to receive Best Bar None accreditation, premises undertook a three-hour assessment by police and council officers, but also received two spot-checks.

Awards were given to premises scoring highly in both assessments and visits, as well as receiving ratings placing them in gold, silver or bronze categories.

The awards presentation took place at the Ramside Hall Hotel, at Carrville, on the outskirts of Durham.

Winner in the pub category was The Three Bridges, previously known as The William Hedley, in North Road, with The Half Moon Inn, in New Elvet, in the runner-up position.

The Library was the Best Bar category winner, followed by The Court Inn, in Court Lane.

Fabio’s, above La Spaghettata, in Saddler Street, was named Best Nightclub, with Klute, off Elvet Bridge, runner-up.

The Library just pipped runner-up The Woodman Inn, in Gilesgate, in the Alcohol-Free Bar section.

County council leader Simon Henig said: “The scheme has shown real success in helping make our city a safe place.

“It is great to see the commitment of businesses and individuals rewarded at the awards night and also through the benefits the scheme brings to those who participate.”

Evaluation of past winners reflects a knock-on increase in footfall in the wake of BBN success.

Further information on the scheme is available via www.durham.gov.uk/BBN.