Members of the recently formed Kirkby Stephen Pub-watch Group met at the Black Bull Inn at Nateby recently to discuss the their activities. 

The group was formed in March of this year and initially consisted of the main pubs in the town.

However, the last two months have seen the group’s number swell to 12 pubs, including those from villages in the surrounding area.

The motto of the National Pub-watch scheme is “Stronger Together” and the aim of the group is to ensure that when people go out to pubs they can do so in a safe environment, without fear of threats, abuse, intimidation or harassment.

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Dave Thomas, Owner and Designated Premises Supervisor at the L’al Nook Pub at Kirkby Stephen and Chairman of the Kirkby Stephen Pub-watch Group, said: "I’m delighted to announce that both pubs and clubs within Kirkby Stephen Town and our local villages have decided to take up the offer of joining the Pub-watch Group.

"The aim of this group is to make all licensed premises within the Kirkby Stephen area a safe and enjoyable place to socialise with friends and family and to enjoy the superb products that we all have to offer."

It’s hoped that the success of the Pub-watch scheme will help it expand to all licensed premises, between Tebay and Brough in the Eden area.