Garry Newlove's Warrington widow backs pub training

Feb 9 2010 Liverpool Daily Post

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THE widow of a man beaten to death by a gang of drunken yobs yesterday called for pubs and bars to help end Britain’s binge-drinking culture.

Helen Newlove, whose husband, Garry, was killed in front of her and their three daughters outside their Warrington home, in August, 2007, wants better training for pub workers.

Launching a new body, the National Licensed Trade Association, she said stopping alcohol abuse will help cut anti-social behaviour and violence.

The NLTA is offering courses for landlords and bar staff to help stop excessive drinking.

Mrs Newlove, 47, said: “I believe bringing together strong, like-minded representatives from the licensed trade, local and national government, police, NHS and charities, that our collective power and expertise can tackle our society’s culture of binge drinking and alcohol abuse which leads to so much anti-social behaviour in residential areas, our high streets and city centres.”

Don Shenker, chief executive of Alcohol Concern, called for a radical change in how alcohol is sold. He said: “Britain desperately needs a reality check in how alcohol is sold and promoted.

“This new venture is a fantastic opportunity to drive forward positive change among those who sell alcohol.

“If we are to reduce the harms excessive drinking cause, we must radically alter the way alcohol is being sold. If given a chance, this new initiative will undoubtedly save lives.”