Twenty local pubs, clubs and bars are celebrating after being recognised as the ‘best bar none’ in Renfrewshire. Licensed premises across the area took part in the Best Bar None Awards 2015, a joint initiative from Renfrewshire Council and Police Scotland.

The scheme, introduced in 2012, recognises those premises providing locals with a safe place to enjoy a drink. Venues score gold, silver or bronze status and are then entitled to display their Best Bar None accreditation.

Eight of the premises involved will now compete in the national Best Bar None award scheme. The biggest winners were WWCM Ltd who won four gold awards for their venues Kilty Kilty, Caffufals, Fantoosh and the Tartan Rose.

Claire Colquhoun, general manager of WWCM Ltd, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have won four awards. Kilty Kilty has been part of the scheme from the start but this is the first year we’ve put as many as four venues forward, so to win gold awards for all four is something we’re very proud of.

“We’re committed to making sure everyone who comes to our venues has a safe, enjoyable experience and it’s nice to be able to show that commitment through our Best Bar None accreditation.” Meanwhile, Renfrew hotel bar the Glynhill scooped a Silver award, with Bishopton Inn Hotel walking off with a Bronze. This is the third time the Best Bar None scheme, which works closely with the licensed trade, has been held in Renfrewshire.

Councillor Eddie Devine, convener of Renfrewshire’s Environment Policy Board, said: “We had more entrants for the scheme than ever before this year and it’s hugely encouraging to see the quality of the applications rise year-on-year.

“Well-managed licensed premises play an important part in making our towns and villages more vibrant places. Our award winners all go above and beyond for their customers and their communities, and we’re happy to be able to recognise that through Best Bar None.” Inspector Jane Harley of Police Scotland added: “We work closely with licensed premises throughout Renfrewshire to ensure the safety of their patrons and their wider communities.

“All of our award winners are doing great work to promote responsible drinking and community safety. I’d encourage other licensees to find out more about the scheme and get involved.” The awards scheme was first developed in December 2005 to target alcohol fuelled violence, disorder and anti-social behaviour by working closely with the licensed trade to generate high standards and professionalism in terms of responsible sale of alcohol.

Although it has included premises throughout Glasgow from the beginning of the scheme, this is the first time that bars and pubs in Renfrewshire have been able to run for the awards.

The scheme is steered through a partnership involving Glasgow City Centre Alcohol Action Group, Glasgow Community and Safety Services, Strathclyde Police, Scottish Late Night Operators Association and the Scottish Licensed Trade Association.