A community safety scheme has seen pubs, clubs and bars come together to help reduce alcohol-related crime.

Best Bar None is an accreditation initiative supported by the Home Office and drinks industry which has been set up to improve standards in the evening and night-time economy.

Originally piloted in Manchester and launched in Thanet last month, it is now time for Dartford businesses to take part.

They will work closely with police, Dartford council and other establishments to reduce crime and promote safer socialising in their community.

Venues must demonstrate their competency in four key areas: venue management, staff training and care, customer safety and welfare, and customer service and community.

Assessments will begin in August and if successful, businesses will be accredited.

More shops will be able to join the scheme at a later date.

Council leader Cllr Jeremy Kite (Con) talked about the importance of the Best Bar None scheme to establish safer socialising.

He said: "As we all get back together again, socialising is such an important part of life. We all want to feel safe and be safe.

"Best Bar None is an initiative which encourages venues in the night-time economy to be the best they can be, and provide a safe and secure environment for all their guests. It's a mark of quality that every guest can rely upon."

District commander for north Kent, Chief Inspector William Lay said: "We have a vibrant and busy night-time economy and work hard to ensure those who work, live and visit do so safely and responsibly.

"This initiative will only seek to further strengthen this, and it is great to see businesses wishing to join the scheme.

"By taking part, they are agreeing to help ensure Dartford continues to be a safe and enjoyable experience for all who frequent the town and that those in the scheme work towards maintaining high standards and good practices within their venues."