A campaign to improve the pub industry in Sutton has become one of the most successful in the country.

The number of pubs, clubs and bars taking part in the Sutton Best Bar None scheme has now topped 37.

Organisers Sutton Borough Police and Sutton Council believe it is the highest volume of entrants in the first year of any Best Bar None scheme with the exception of Manchester.

A spokesman said the campaign has drawn in licensed premises from all the main centres including Sutton town centre, Carshalton, Cheam, Wallington and Worcester Park.

He said even premises that have been subject to review have entered including The Angel, Angel Hill, Sutton, and the Cazbar, of Central Road, Worcester Park.

Sutton town centre Sergeant Andy Barnes said: “It’s very exciting that more than 50 per cent of the borough’s eligible premises are showing their willingness to work with police and the council to improve their standards of public safety and customer care.

“The scheme will benefit everyone – venues, customers, residents and visitors – making Sutton a more attractive and even safer place.”

Assessments are due to start this week by accredited assessors from the police and Sutton Council.

A spokesman said they will look at how well run and managed the licensed premises are in four key categories – prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance and protection of children from harm.

Executive member for community safety councillor Graham Tope said: “We’re delighted with this show of support from the business community.”

An awards ceremony organised by the Enterprise Company will be held at Epsom Racecourse on Wednesday May 19 when category winners will be presented with a plaque for public display.

BBN was launched nationally six years ago The main sponsors of Sutton’s BBN scheme are Diageo, Wetherspoons, Revolutions and TCG – the owners of Ivory Lounge.

Now you can vote for your favourite venue online by visiting: www.suttonbestbarnone.co.uk.

One licensed presmises in Sutton will win a Readers’ Choice Award at the ceremony voted by Sutton Guardian readers.