TWENTY Halton venues have pledged to promote responsible drinking.

Pubs and clubs across Runcorn and Widnes have been awarded 'ArcAngel' status in recognition of their commitment to tackling alcohol harm and promoting responsible drinking.

ArcAngel is the joint approach to tackling alcohol-related crime between Cheshire Police and other agencies, including Halton Borough Council, other councils in Cheshire, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service and NHS trusts.

Halton became an ArcAngel Protected area in December 2011 and recent new additions have raised the total number of ‘protected premises′ in the area to 20.

A Council spokesman said: “Protected Town status identifies as a place where people can be reassured that the licensed premises they visit are well-managed, regulated and safe places to enjoy a night out.

“Tackling alcohol related problems such as anti-social behaviour is a priority for all the agencies involved, together with local residents and the premises themselves.

The Safer Halton partnership is focused on making the area a safe environment for all to enjoy an evening’s entertainment.”

Premises awarded ArcAngel status receive a logo to put in a window to ArcAngel premises in Halton include: The Cricketer’s Arms,The Bradley, The Imperial, The Premier (JD Wetherspoons), Select Security Stadium,The Ring O Bells, The Tavern, Frankie and Benny’s, Reel Cinema, Widnes Superbowl, Nando’s, Silver Blades, Daresbury Park Hotel, The Red Lion, Moore The Evenwood, The Preston Brook, The Ferry Boat (JD Wetherspoons), The Prospect Arms, The Tunnel Top and Runcorn Rockwell’s Diner.