Bars trained to help keep women safe on nights out

Bars and pubs were given a training session at the Trowbridge Civic Centre

Bars and pubs in a market town have come together to try and make women feel safer at night.

Owners and staff were given a training session at the Trowbridge Civic Centre on Tuesday aimed at making sure people are safe during the darker hours.

Part of the training includes a scheme called Pubwatch which allows pubs and clubs to share information about potentially vulnerable customers.

Ruby Goodman, landlady of the The Stallards Inn, said the initiative gives workers "that little bit more" to help people who do not feel safe.

The course includes awareness of potential drink spiking and the ‘Ask for Angela’ scheme

The training initiative includes 10 face-to face-sessions, five online sessions and online learning.

Staff will be trained to have better awareness of potential drink spiking and how to implement the ‘Ask for Angela’ scheme.

Ms Jordan said feeling vulnerable at night in Trowbridge is a "perception"

Tori Jordan, from Still Sisters Distillery, described Trowbridge as a "quiet place", but explained why it is still "intimidating" for females walking alone at night.

"It's a perception and a feeling," she said.

"I'm a keen runner, but at night time I don't go running on my own."

Ms Cook said the training will be "really positive" for the town

Antonia Cook from Trowbridge Town Hall Trust applauded the Ask For Angela scheme.

"It's been around for a while now, but it will be really positive," she said.

"It's sad that women have to feel like they're protecting themselves, but there are so many people here who are doing their bit to make people feel safe."