Maltby manager Beth wins national pubwatch award

The manager of The Queens Hotel (Maltby) and chair of Maltby pubwatch, Beth Burns, has received a top award for her efforts to reduce crime and improve community cohesion in the South Yorkshire town.

She has been awarded a National Pubwatch Award of Merit, rewarding individuals who have contributed to the success of pubwatch schemes.

National Pubwatch is a voluntary organisation which supports more than 800 local pubwatch schemes across the UK and works to promote safe, secure and social drinking environments in all licensed premises throughout the UK.

Beth (pictured) was recognised for her work to improve the safety, security and well-being of staff and customers in her pub and in the wider pubwatch community, as well as for her positive efforts to engage with the police and the council.

She has spearheaded meetings with the local police team, also inviting ward councillors and the local council to discuss issues, share intelligence and propose ways to resolve challenges.

Through her efforts, violence in pubs and antisocial behaviour are on the decline, with an increase in footfall and families visiting venues.

The pubwatch has also been a catalyst for community engagement, with members now fully involved with local activities to bring the community together.

These have included distraction events for youths on bonfire night to target and discourage poor behaviour, community walks to tackle loneliness and litter-picking events to restore a feeling of pride in the area.

The scheme has also been instrumental in campaigning for improvements in the local infrastructure and public spaces, such as installing public CCTV and lighting.

Beth said: “It is great to be recognised with this National Pubwatch Award of Merit.

“Working with other stakeholders in the local area has really worked in bringing the community together.”

National Pubwatch chair Steve Baker OBE said: “The range of initiatives Beth has been spearheading has made Maltby a safer place to go out – and her success in doing this is something to be praised.”

Wetherspoon’s chief executive, John Hutson, added: “We are immensely proud of Beth. She is an outstanding licensee and richly deserves her award.”