BUSINESSES across Winchester raised a glass to toast their success at a prestigious awards ceremony.

The first annual Best Bar None Winchester Award ceremony saw managers and company owners from across the district gather at the Guildhall for a spot of fizz to celebrate their new accredited status as well as the winners – The Slug and Lettuce.

In its first year as a localised scheme it forms part of the national project aimed at promoting safety and high standards for pubs and bars.

Nine venues from around the city centre were endorsed including Alfie’s, Pitcher and Piano, The William Walker, The Exchange, The Royal Oak, O’Neills, The County Arms and The Old Gaol House.

The scheme is coordinated by Tom Manville, Vice Chair of Winchester PubWatch, with Jane Bastock, Crime Reduction Officer at Winchester Business Improvement District.

Mr Manville, Bar Manager of Winchester Student Union, recently scooped the overall winner’s Gold Award at the National Best Bar None NUS Awards for the fourth year running, beating off 96 other student unions.

He said: “Each venue which has achieved Best Bar None accredited status, shows a dedication to operating to a high standard with genuine regard for offering a safe environment for its customers and staff alike as well as the wider community.”

Jane Bastock, Crime Reduction Officer at Winchester BID, said: “Taking part in this nationally accredited award encourages businesses to share best practise, build good working relationships with the police and local authorities and the competitive nature of the scheme keeps businesses constantly on the lookout for new innovation ideas to improve business and contribute to the safe night time economy of Winchester City Centre.”

Jen Ford and her team at The Slug and Lettuce accepted their gold plaque. They will now go forward to the National Best Bar None Awards and a reception at the Houses of Parliament, later this year.