Croydon's safer pub initiative is to be launched in the autumn and Budweiser has already agreed to be a sponsor.

This year's Best Bar None scheme will be launched with a reception on October 6 at Tiger Tiger.

Best Bar None, a joint initiative between Croydon Council and the police, aims to promote safer pubs, responsible drinking as well as recognising safe and well managed bars.

Last year clubs and bars which entered the awards scheme were judged on how well they were run with Tiger Tiger being voted the overall winner by a team of judges.

The scheme has attracted interest in neighbouring Bromley, Newquay in Cornwall, and as far afield as Queensland, Australia, where officials are thinking about introducing their own versions of the initiative.

All clubs and bars in Croydon with public entertainment licences will be invited to take part in the scheme.

They will be quizzed about their safety record and customer care by police and a panel of judges.

For more information on the Best Bar None initiative go to: www.croydonbestbarnone.com.