The initial pilot scheme, which was open to Barrhead and Uplawmoor premises, is now open to all eligible licensed premises throughout East Renfrewshire and applications for the 2015-16 will close on August 31 2015.

Best Bar None Scotland was developed in partnership with those organisations plus the Scottish Government, licensing boards, Scottish Licensed Trade Association and many other partners.

Its aim is to work together with the licensed trade to create a safer and more welcoming licensing environment and leisure economy. This would effectively make Scotland’s towns and city centres more attractive places for people to live, work and visit.

Senior East Renfrewshire trading standards officer Alison Bannister said: “We are pleased to be working with BBN Scotland to extend the scheme throughout our area. It's important that residents and visitors to the area see that bars and clubs are accredited as safe places to visit and enjoy a drink and we are inviting all licensed premises to apply.” East Renfrewshire Council’s convener for environment Vincent Waters said: “The enthusiasm of licensed premises in our pilot last year shows the determination from the venues to help the night time economy flourish, acknowledge good practice and help keep their customers and staff safe from violence and anti-social behaviour.

"We are hoping that more venues will get involved this year to help make East Renfrewshire a more attractive place to work, live and visit."

Information and application packs can be found at www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk/bestbarnone or by emailing alison.bannister@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk and requesting an application pack.

Alternatively you can telephone 0141 577 8487.