Tackling gang related crime, security threats and terrorism are to be the focus of the 20th annual National Pubwatch Conference.
The event, which will take place at the Crowne Plaza, Sheffield, on Tuesday, 5th March 2024, boasts a raft of industry speakers from the pub, licensed and police sectors.
Daniel Davies from Rockpoint Leisure and New Brighton Pubwatch will talk about tackling gang crime in the licensed trade.
There will also be a legal update that will see Jonathan Smith and Andy Grimsey from Poppleston Allen talk about the latest impacts on the sector including the up-and-coming Martyn’s Law or its official title as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises Bill).
National Pubwatch of the Year Nottingham Pubwatch will be at the event and its chair Michele Somers will give her view on sharing best practice.
Matt Lambert, chief executive of The Portman Group, will give the trade view with an insight into the organisation. Other speakers include Matt Sessions, Problem Solving Tactical Advisor from Warwickshire Police and Chief Superintendent Ian Proffitt, Prevention Strategic Lead, South Yorkshire Police.
The prestigious National Pubwatch awards will also be handed out on the day including the National Pubwatch Award of Merit, which rewards individuals that have contributed to the success of pubwatch schemes and the Malcolm Eidmans award, which recognises the outstanding contribution made by a police officer or member of police staff in supporting the work of their local pubwatch scheme.
There will also two Bravery and Meritorious Conduct Awards given, which recognise the contribution of individuals whose actions have saved life or minimised physical harm.
National Pubwatch chairman Steve Baker OBE said: “This is set to be another challenging year for the late-night economy. The conference will focus on some of the major issues related to preventing violence and reduction of harm and our speakers will be providing practical advice and guidance.
“It is also important that we recognise best practice and it will be a privilege to recognise those who have contributed so much to making our town centres a safer environment.”
Mark Worthington, who chairs the conference organising committee at National Pubwatch, said: “We look forward to welcoming delegates to this years’ conference, it is our 20th conference so quite a milestone. We feel we have put together an interesting and informative agenda based upon current issues in the night time economy and feedback from Pubwatches and associated bodies throughout the year.”
To book for the conference go to