A group behind a scheme to prevent alcohol-fuelled crimes in West Cornwall has been recognised nationally.

Penzance and Newlyn Pubwatch was named the winner of a national competition for the project, which recognises the work that takes place in towns and cities across the country to make pubs safe places for customers and staff.

The team in Penzance and Newlyn were presented with the Diageo National Pubwatch Award at a ceremony in the House of Commons, in front of MPs, Lords and notable names from the pub industry.

The Penzance and Newlyn Watch was praised by judges for its “early intervention” approach, which includes working with vulnerable people and substance abusers to identify problems before they become an issue. The Watch was also commended for establishing an “exceptional” range of partnerships not only with police but street pastors, Trading Standards and Addaction, a drug and alcohol treatment charity.

Judges were also particularly impressed by the Watch’s creation of a “safe places” scheme, providing places of sanctuary within pubs for people who may feel vulnerable when they’re out socialising.

Mark Baird, head of Alcohol in Society at Diageo Great Britain, said: “Penzance and Newlyn represents all that is good about the National Pubwatch scheme and the work that its local organisations do.

“They play a critical role in reducing crime, promoting responsible drinking and making pubs a safe and enjoyable place for customers and staff.

“Everyone, no matter who they are, should feel safe when they go out for a drink at the pub, or for a meal.”

Laura Cockle, secretary of Penzance and Newlyn Pubwatch, said “collaboration is key” to their scheme’s success.

She said: “We’re incredibly proud to win this award. Pubwatch makes real and genuine improvements to the lives of customers, staff, and the local communities they operate in.

“The work we do here in Cornwall is testament to that. We work over a 30 mile radius, supporting hundreds of pubs and making them safe, fun environments to socialise in.

“Our work with Addaction in particular, focused on training staff on how to deal with substance abusers, is a real source of pride for us - as are the links we have established with a range of other organisations across the area. That strong level of collaboration is key to fighting alcohol related crime and developing initiatives that deliver results.”