Drink sensibly

I wish to endorse the comments made by Ivan Menzies, CEO of Diageo in the Scotsman (20 March).

His article “Responsibility the new mantra for drink firms” fits in exactly with the ethos of what Best Bar None is doing in Scotland.

Since its launch in Scotland in 2005, the Best Bar None accreditation scheme has established itself in 58 towns, cities and villages across Scotland. Our ambition is to develop our group of partners and sponsors to continue driving up standards across the licensed trade industry, from 10,000-seater capacity venues, through to local pubs, hoteliers and niche bars.

The scheme is already supported by Diageo, Molson Coors, Heineken, Tennents, Maxxium and Chivas Brothers and is an integral part of promoting a Safer Scotland and Building Safer Communities.

It has been created through the partnership with Police Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Scottish Business Resilience Centre and The Scottish Licensed Trade Association, working together to improve Scotland’s day and night time economy and celebrate and reward licensed premises who look after their customers.

As Ivan Menzies said, the way people socialise and drink evolves. BBN is an opportunity to demonstrate that the industry is seeking to improve the customer’s wider needs to enjoy a good night out, whether it be drinking alcohol, low alcohol or nonalcohol products in a sociable and safe environment. As part of this, I am delighted to see Edinburgh Airport supporting this important work and becoming the first airport in theuktodoso. MANDY HAEBURN-LITTLE Chair, Best Bar None Scotland Scottish Business Resilience

Centre Stirling University Innovation

Park, Stirling