Cheshire Police Sergeant Matthew Stonier has been honoured with the National Pubwatch Malcolm Eidmans Award, sponsored by Poppleston Allen.
The award recognises exceptional contributions by police officers or police staff in supporting Pubwatch schemes across the UK.
National Pubwatch is a voluntary organisation, which supports over 800 Pubwatch schemes across the UK, and works to promote safe, secure and social drinking environments in all licensed premises throughout the UK.
Sergeant Stonier received the accolade for transforming Nantwich Pubwatch into a thriving partnership that has strengthened safety across the town’s night-time economy.
He has enhanced governance processes, encouraged shared ownership among licensees and introduced systems that support greater accountability and transparency. His work has empowered licensees to take collective responsibility for safety, welfare and communication, an approach that has significantly reduced risk and boosted community confidence.
He now actively shares his learning and best practice with colleagues across Cheshire.
Stonier said: “It is a tremendous honour to receive the Malcolm Eidmans Award at this year’s National Pubwatch Conference. This recognition stands as one of the real highlights of my policing career to date.
“Active participation in Pubwatch is, for me, a fundamental expectation for any officer working within our town centres. Throughout my involvement with the Nantwich scheme, I have had the privilege of working alongside dedicated police officers, committed operators and exceptional chairs who have helped shape the partnership into something far more meaningful than simply issuing bans.”
He added: “Pubwatch in Nantwich has become about creating a genuine sense of community within the night‑time economy. It is about building lasting relationships, sharing information, driving positive initiatives and welcoming contributors who bring real added value from charities to partner agencies and local event organisers. This collaborative approach ensures that we are, in every sense, stronger together.
“Nothing has contributed more to the significant reduction in incidents within Nantwich’s night‑time economy than the strength of our Pubwatch partnership. I am proud to accept this award on behalf of everyone who has played a part in making our community safer, more connected and more resilient.”
National Pubwatch Chair Steve Baker, OBE, said: “Matthew has shown real dedication to supporting and championing the benefits of local Pubwatches. He has spearheaded a partnership that has delivered clear results in reducing incidents and strengthening collaboration. National Pubwatch is proud to recognise his important work.”
