The Argus is sponsoring an awards scheme to set a benchmark for excellence among outlets selling alcohol in Brighton and Hove city centre.

The Best Bar None initiative has been launched by Brighton and Hove police with their partners in the Community Safety Forum and the late-night entertainment industry.

The aim is to reduce the risk of alcohol-related disorder and crime and establish a standard of good practice for licensed premises.

The Argus editor Michael Beard said: "We are delighted to be backing such a worthwhile campaign.

"City-centre pubs, clubs and off-licences have improved standards immensely in recent years and this scheme will go a long way to recognise their efforts."

A recent British Crime Survey has shown a significant proportion of crime is related to poorly-managed licensed premises.

A police spokeswoman said: "Best Bar None will provide an incentive for owners to improve standards through a high-profile awards scheme.

"There are three categories - pubs, bars and clubs - and each outlet will be judged on door policy, crime prevention strategy, emergency procedures along with drink and drugs policies.

"Entrants who meet the minimum standard of safety receive an accreditation which enables them to use the Best Bar None logo on their promotional material and advertising.

"The overall winners in each category will receive the accolade of Best Pub, Bar or Club in Brighton and Hove. Awards will be presented at a dinner at the Hilton Brighton Metropole on October 1."

Chief Inspector Lawrence Hobbs said: "We are determined to reduce alcohol-related crime and make the city an even safer night out."

Catrina Nixon, general manager of The Blind Busker pub in Church Street, Hove, was involved in a similar scheme in Southampton.

She said: "By working together towards the same goal we saw safer environments for our customers and crime and disorder was reduced.

"It is incredibly rewarding for the staff as the scheme requires a real team effort and everyone wants to work for the best licensed premises in the city."

The Brighton and Hove scheme is sponsored and supported by Carlsberg, The Argus, Southern FM and Brighton and Hove Citicabs 205205.

Application forms in PDF format, containing the Best Bar None logo, are available from Sue Heard on 01273 665515.

The official launch is at 2pm on Tuesday, May 9, at the William IV Room, Royal Pavilion, Brighton.