Liverpool, Nottingham and Clerkenwell in Islington are the first three areas to be awarded a Purple Flag kitemark in recognition of the work they’ve done to improve their nighttime environment for visitors and residents.

The scheme is intended to make city centres safer, cleaner and more pleasant places to be after dark, by tackling antisocial behaviour and improving choice for visitors. Bar-specific activity that was recognised included staff in Clerkenwell being trained to spot customers at risk of drinking too much, and tactfully switching them over to soft drinks.

The scheme, run by the Association of Town Centre Management, is being sponsored by Diageo, which will be investing £100,000 in the project over the next three years.

If you want to put your town centre forward for the award contact the ATCM on 020 7222 0120, info@atcm.org, or visit the The Association of Town Centre Management website

News item from Imbibe.com, 08-09-2010