ONE of the areas longest serving licensees has been honoured by the National Pubwatch Scheme recently.

Kay Bower has been the stewardess of the Barrow Labour Club and Institute in Cavendish for 20 years and for the past 12 years has been the membership co-ordinator of the local Pubwatch scheme.

In a ceremony at Carlisle Kay was awarded with the National Pubwatch Star Award which was presented to her by Cumbria Constabulary Chief Constable Michelle Skeer.

Kay had been nominated for the prestigious award by the regional Pubwatch representative Joe Murray who said: “Kay has been a strong supporter of the scheme and has worked hard to make it a success She has also become involved with Barrow BID as a delegate representing the night-time economy.

"Her efforts are worthy of recognition and the highly commended award is well deserved.”

Kay said: “Pubs and, in towns like Barrow working men's clubs, have traditionally been at the heart of the community.

"They provide not only a place for a drink but somewhere to socialise and enjoy a bit of company.

"Recently during the festive period pubs and clubs were places where those who would otherwise be on their own could meet with others.

"To be welcoming to one and all licensed premises need to be safe and non-threatening for customers and staff alike which is why I strongly support the Pubwatch scheme. In tackling problem areas licensed premises are stronger together.”

The Furness Pubwatch has a strong membership and members will not tolerate any form of abusive behaviour towards customers or staff. There is a zero tolerance policy towards drugs.

Those who break the rules are liable to be excluded from the premises of all members.

Also receiving a similar award on the evening was Charles Knight of the The Crescent public house, Carlisle.

National Pubwatch is a voluntary organisation set up to promote best practice. Its aim is to achieve a safer drinking environment in all licensed premises throughout the UK.