The Best Bar None is an awards scheme for licensed premises that started in Manchester and is currently running in over 80 locations across the UK. Best Bar None schemes provide an incentive for the operators of licensed premises to improve their standards of operation to the level of a commonly agreed national benchmark. Best Bar None provides a much needed opportunity for licensees to demonstrate to official agencies just how well they manage their own businesses. It is an opportunity for positive dialogue between the two sides. The standards outlines by Best Bar None also provide a common reference point for community officers to work with their local pubs and clubs in tackling crime and disorder issues on an ongoing basis.

The Somerset scheme started in June 2009 and all pubs and clubs that have signed up are automatically entered into an award scheme that rewards good practice and high standards. The scheme was brought together locally by Inspector Mike Ashwin, from Taunton Police Station. Inspector Ashwin heads up STARC - Somerset Tackling Alcohol Related Crime.

"Best Bar None is an excellent way for pubs and clubs to advertise and show what safe venues they are. We are adding a Community Pub of the Year award in Somerset and look forward to hearing from places that have really contributed to their local neighbourhood. We are also looking for the Most Dog Friendly Pub, this is a first for the UK scheme.  “Best Bar None is a very real opportunity for licensees to make their venue as friendly and safe as possibly. The response so far has been great but we would like to see many more premises joining in."