BARS, pubs and nightclubs are battling to be named the best run premises in Stafford Borough.
More than 20 in Stafford and Stone are in the running for the Best Bar None competition.
Judges will be out and about next month and the winners will be announced in the new year.
The awards, in their third year, aim to improve the experience for customers in both towns by encouraging better standards among licensees.
This year entries are up by more than 50 per cent compared to 2011.
The competition has already been credited with helping to improve night-time safety by contributing to a cut in crime and disorder, as well as helping the economy.
Among the prizes are Best Bar, Best Pub, and Best Nightclub as well as an overall winner for Stafford and Stone.
All successful premises will be given either a bronze, silver or gold accreditation.
