FIFTEEN pubs and eateries in Witney have joined a national safety scheme to reduce sexual violence and vulnerability.

Anyone feeling unsafe or threatened on a date can use the phrase 'Ask for Angela' at the establishments.

This phrase will be recognised by staff, who can help the person leave the venue discreetly and get home, or reach a place of safety.

Officers from West Oxfordshire District Council and Thames Valley Police promoted the initiatives at the 15 venues, all of which will be displaying posters in their toilets.

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One participating business is Norton’s café bar, on Langdale Gate, and manager Jemma Shields felt it was important to sign up for 'Ask for Angela'.

She said: “We’re very happy to join this scheme and, even if it only helps one person, it is well worth it.”

Norman MacRae MBE, cabinet member for community safety, added: “It’s so important that people have a safety net if they feel uncomfortable, especially today when online dating is so popular and people often meet in public places for the first time.

“I’m delighted that fifteen places in Witney are joining the ‘Ask for Angela’ campaign and our ambition is to implement the scheme across West Oxfordshire.”

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The initiative was originally launched by Lincolnshire County Council, but is now nationwide.

The premises in Witney that signed up are:

  • Bill’s
  • Ye Olde Cross Keys
  • Eagle Vaults
  • Como Lounge
  • Eagle Tavern
  • Fat Lils nightclub
  • Fat Lils café
  • The Three Horseshoes
  • New Inn
  • Chequers Smokehouse
  • Rocket
  • The Angel Inn
  • The Company of Weavers
  • Nortons Café Bar
  • Hackett’s