A Colchester scheme which aims to keep people safe on a night out has scooped a national award.
Colchester Pubwatch has been awarded the top accolade of National Pubwatch of the Year.
The city scheme was rewarded for its proactive and forward-thinking approach to managing the nighttime economy, including its partnership with Essex Police, the Business Improvement District and Colchester Council.
Andy Starr, chairman of Colchester Pubwatch, said: "Thank you, National Pubwatch. Winning this award is a huge honour and is recognition of the teamwork and commitment shown by everyone involved in Colchester Pubwatch.
Winner - Colchester Pubwatch chairman Andy Starr with the awards from National Pubwatch (Image: GILL EVANS)
"Our aim is to make the City of Colchester a safe and welcoming place for all. This award celebrates the dedication of our members who work as conduits between authorities, licensees and many partners to ensure a safe night out for everyone."
The annual award is judged by members of the National Pubwatch committee, part of the voluntary organisation supporting more than 800 schemes across the UK.
The organisation aims to ensure safe, secure and social drinking environments in all licensed premises throughout the UK.
National Pubwatch chairman Steve Baker OBE said: "It has been an honour to celebrate the winner and finalists at this awards event in the House of Lords.
"The National Pubwatch of the Year award is so important in recognising the hard work of local Pubwatches, their members and individuals.
"Colchester Pubwatch is a deserving recipient with a leadership that fosters partnership working and supports a safer night-time economy."
Our Colchester BID Manager Vincent Geaves; Colchester Pubwatch chair Andy Starr; Wetherspoon's legal director, Nigel Connor; Honorary President of National Pubwatch Lord Evans and National Pubwatch chairman Steve Baker OBE (Image: GILL EVANS)
The event was sponsored by JD Wetherspoon, with its pubs being involved in 532 Pubwatch schemes across the country.
Wetherspoon's legal director, Nigel Connor, said: "This year has again seen some fantastic entries which reflect the strength and importance of Pubwatches throughout the United Kingdom in helping create safe towns and cities.
"Colchester Pubwatch is a worthy winner, and congratulations to everyone involved in the scheme.
"This is our sixth year of sponsorship of the awards, and Wetherspoon is pleased to be able to help recognise the work done by all Pubwatch members as well as the authorities who co-operate with them through our continued support."