The British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) is proud to celebrate the achievements of three outstanding local Pubwatch schemes: Newcastle City Centre, Padstow, and Colchester, who have been named as finalists for Pubwatch of the Year at the National Pubwatch Awards 2025, sponsored by JD Wetherspoon.
The prestigious awards ceremony will take place at the House of Lords on Tuesday, 21st October 2025, recognising the exceptional efforts of local Pubwatch groups and their members in promoting safe, responsible, and vibrant licensed premises across the UK.
Pubwatch is a voluntary partnership where licensees work collaboratively to prevent crime and anti-social behaviour in their venues. Established in the late 1990s, the initiative continues to play a vital and necessary role in supporting the night-time economy while maintaining safe environments for both staff and customers. They achieve this through close partnerships with local authorities and police forces.
Last year’s winners, Chesterfield Pubwatch, were recognised as an effective and forward-thinking organisation that has worked closely with the police and Chesterfield Borough Council for more than two decades. Their win in 2024 helped to secure additional funding and strengthen community safety initiatives, which is an inspiring example for this year’s finalists.
Steve Baker OBE, National Pubwatch Chair, said:
“These awards promote good practice and recognise those Pubwatches and publicans working hard to provide safe and responsible drinking environments. The quality of entries this year was exceptionally high, reflecting the outstanding work being done by schemes across the country to make the night-time economy safer for everyone. We would also like to thank JD Wetherspoon for their continued support of National Pubwatch and these awards.”
Nigel Connor, Legal Director at JD Wetherspoon, said:
“Pubwatches only work because of the dedication and daily efforts of their many members. The National Pubwatch Awards are a great opportunity to highlight those schemes that go the extra mile, setting an example for others across the industry. We’re proud to support these awards for the sixth successive year.”
As long-standing supporters of National Pubwatch with our own licensees contributing to the scheme, including No.28 in Manchester, the BII is delighted to see so many of its members represented among this year’s finalists. Their work echoes the very best of the licensed trade and encourages a shared commitment to safety and excellence.
