Fighting Cocks named best run pub in Durham at Best Bar None awards

Durham’s best run pubs have been recognised with the historic Fighting Cocks, on South Street, coming out top in the annual Best Bar None awards.

The tavern, which sits on a site that has been home to an inn for more than 300 years, was named the Best Premises Bar None at a glitzy ceremony in Ramside Hall Hotel, having already scooped the Best Pub title.

The Head of Steam, on Reform Place, was runner up in the pubs category, with Whiskey River, based in the Prince Bishops Shopping Centre, named Best Bar ahead of The Bishop Mill Lloyds No 1 on Walkergate.

Durham Chief Constable Mike Barton, who gave the keynote address at the ceremony, said the scheme was a huge testament to each and every licensee that has participated this year.

“I’m over the moon to announce that we’re once again on target to maintain for two years running a 57.6per cent drop in violence against the person,” he said.

City centre manager Carol Feenan, who manages the scheme on behalf of Durham County Council said as well as having a positive effect on crime, Best Bar None was helping to bring more people in to pubs and clubs.

“Apart from making the streets safer the scheme has also seen an increase in the number of people coming into the city centre at night,” she said. “But we are never complacent and we look forward to even more success.”