A new Night-time Economy Co-ordinator has been appointed to help support Bournemouth’s vibrant night scene, with funding from the Bournemouth Town Centre BID and Bournemouth Town Watch.

Victoria Sheppard, who brings 20 years of experience in the sector, took up the post last month. Her role will involve overseeing key initiatives to ensure the town’s night-time economy remains safe, well-managed, and successful. The part-time position, funded by the BID and Town Watch, was created after a council reorganisation led to the previous role being disbanded.

Victoria, who has worked with Town Watch for 15 years, will spend two-and-a-half days a week liaising with businesses including bars, pubs, restaurants, and nightclubs. Her remit also involves collaboration with stakeholders like Dorset Police and the BCP Council to tackle any challenges while capitalising on new opportunities.

Alan Dove, Chair of Bournemouth Town Watch, welcomed the appointment: “We’ve been missing that lynchpin person, so we are incredibly pleased to be working with the Town Centre BID to fund this role. I know Victoria will do a fantastic job.”

Victoria has already made an impact by organising a Town Watch meeting and coordinating a training session for the Unity Promise initiative. The scheme, which aims to improve the safety of women and girls, is supported by various local organisations including Dorset Police and BCP Council.

A key focus for Victoria will be preparations for Bournemouth’s Purple Flag accreditation, which the town has held for 14 years. The Purple Flag is a prestigious international mark of quality for town centres operating from 5pm to 5am.

Victoria will also work to improve communication between the BID and local businesses, encouraging wider use of crime reporting tools like the SentrySIS platform.

Paul Kinvig, Chief Operating Officer of Bournemouth Town Centre BID, praised the new appointment: “Victoria is incredibly passionate and knowledgeable, having dedicated her career to Bournemouth’s night-time economy. She is dynamic and driven, and we are thrilled to have her on board.”

Speaking about her new role, Victoria said: “Bournemouth’s night-time sector is a vital engine for the local economy. I’m excited to support its ongoing success by bringing people together, driving collaboration, and enhancing our national reputation.”