David is a former Police officer who first became involved with Pubwatch whilst working for Cheshire Constabulary as a Community Safety Officer in the Congleton and Vale Royal areas.
Not long after taking up his role he became aware of concerns raised by the Race Equality Council in relation to the banning of a member of the travelling community. In response to their concerns he helped to produce a comprehensive pack for the local Pubwatch scheme which detailed sample minutes, a banning guidance template and standardised warning, banning and appeals letters and procedures. The package met with approval from the Race Equality Council and is now used extensively across Cheshire and beyond.
For several years he has attended local Pubwatch groups to give presentations on drugs issues and he has also delivered BIIAB National Certificate Training in substance abuse at Cheshire College. With Pubwatch in mind he developed Acceptable Behaviour and Drug Safe retention policies for clubs in Vale Royal. The policies included guidance on the employment of trained and accredited staff, a transparent search and admissions policy in relation to the possession of drugs and offensive weapons and a care plan to ensure the safety and welfare of customers.
Dave is currently the Police Licensing Intelligence Officer in West Cheshire and in this role he acts as their gatekeeper for the release of photographs to several Pubwatch schemes. He regularly updates schemes with current crime trends and suspect individuals. His prompt circulations have helped Pubwatch members avoid falling victim to commonly used scams and the recent surge in the theft of mobile phones.
He can be relied upon to produce a poster or leaflet or idea for any particular issue. ‘The Don’t Scam or You’ll Get a Ban’ for fruit machines was perhaps one of his least catchy efforts, although his ‘Don’t Pay as it Goes’ for a mobile phone initiative runs it a close second!
Chief Superintendent Phil Jones of Cheshire Constabulary says:
“From our perspective Pubwatch is a key partner in improving public safety in the area, particularly the night time economy. It’s one of the best examples of Partnership working in action and is making a real difference to our communities.
But like most partnerships it’s the individuals who make a real difference. Dave has been a central player in developing the support and trust across the partnership which has made a real impact on local crime and disorder. On a regular basis he goes beyond what is expected of him in his role. We have seen a significant decline in violent crime and the public disorder associated with licensed premises and whilst there are many factors at play I believe that the work of Dave and Pubwatch is central to the success.
I am absolutely delighted that Dave has won this award and I endorse everything that is said about him. He is reliable and quietly efficient, he just gets on with the job of making the area safer for the community and the work he does fully deserves local and national recognition”.
