President of the the Liquor Accord, Robert “Stumpy” Taylor, said the Ask for Angela Campaign, launched in Bathurst in August, is in place for anyone who feels threatened while in a licensed venue.

The ‘Ask For Angela’ campaign, which began in the UK and has since been rolled out in Sydney and the Central West, is a joint initiative of the Australia Hotels Association and NSW Police, brought to Bathurst through the city’s Liquor Accord.

The internationally recognised  program, which originated two years ago in Lincolnshire, England, is when a patron at a licensed premises “asks for Angela” at a participating venue. The code-word triggers a response from trained staff who will discreetly escort that person to safety or contact authorities.

Bathurst Liquor Accord president Robert ‘Stumpy’ Taylor said the accord discussed the merits of the program at the July meeting and, having decided to support the campaign, said it was operational in time for the Bathurst 1000.

While it’s been in place since October, Mr Taylor said so far there had been no requests for help, though feedback from patrons was positive that the program was in place if required.

He said in the lead up to New Years Eve it was a timely reminder for everyone to stay safe while they are celebrating.

Mr Taylor reminded everyone not to leave their drink unattended, and have one friend in the group who is not drinking who can keep an eye out for everyone.

“We want everyone to have fun and stay safe, don’t drink to excess, be vigilant.”