PUBS and clubs across Middlesbrough are being challenged to prove they are the safest in the town.

The Best Bar None competition, which is aiming to find the best and safest drinking venue, was launched yesterday in the Dickens Inn, in Southfield Road.

Middlesbrough Council's licensing section has organised the scheme in conjunction with Cleveland Police and the Safer Middlesbrough Partnership.

More than 30 premises are expected to enter the contest, which will identify the boozer which is most custome-friendly.

Councillor Barry Coppinger, Middlesbrough Council's executive member for community safety, said: "This is a great opportunity to reward well-run businesses. We want to promote Middlesbrough as a welcoming place which has a lively nighttime economy.

"Well-run pubs and clubs which show they care about their customers and the wider community can play a big part in attracting people to the town for a good, trouble free night out."

Licensees can nominate themselves and have to have their applications in by May 31.

The premises will then be inspected by the police and licensing officers before the Best Bar None award is presented in July.