Mansfield group set up to support door supervisors working at pubs and clubs marks its first anniversary

Mansfield’s Doorwatch group - thought to be the only one of its kind in England - has held its first anniversary meeting

Door supervisors who work at pubs and clubs in Mansfield and representatives of companies that employ them met at Industria in the town centre.

Acting Sgt Colin Kirkup, who is involved in the scheme, said: “Violence in the town centre is down, even though footfall is up.

“This has happened in direct correlation with what we have been doing in Doorwatch.

“When we all pull together it does work.”

Members who had completed a first aid training course were presented with their certificates, an invitation was offered to visit MDC’s CCTV control room and a discussion about ways to summon police help took place.

Other business included information about town centre policing patterns and debate about future activities for the group.

Mansfield Doorwatch was created using money from Mansfield Partnership Against Crime (MPAC).

It is run by pub and club owner Paul Anderton who acts as a non-biased chairman to the group to offer support and opinion. He is supported by Nottinghamshire Police licensing officer Kate Ansty.

Colin Kirkup said Doorwatch was meeting later this month to discuss issues and tactics around the Christmas festive season.

He said: “It could be staff highlighting particular individuals who are a problem, Another issue could be disorderly behaviour issues related to drinking promotions.

“It could be identifying vulnerable women who have been left alone, who may be affected by drink and getting a taxi home for them.

Security staff can work with us and street pastors who have blankets and water.

“Taxis can be arranged and if they are in a bad way, an ambulance called.”