Takeaway where mouse and rat droppings were found fined

A takeaway in Oldham town centre where mouse and rat droppings were discovered has been fined over £1,000. 

BBQ'd on Union Street was visited by an officer from Oldham Council's environmental health team in November last year for a routine food hygiene inspection. 

They found that the premises had not been kept clean or maintained in good repair and condition, while equipment was not kept in a clean condition.

Mouse and rat droppings were found throughout the premises and on food preparation equipment.

Dirt and food debris was found at floor and wall junctions and there was an accumulation of grease on the floor underneath the equipment sink.

The owner pleaded guilty at Tameside Magistrates Court to two charges in relation to the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013. He was fined £1,400, with £140 victim surcharge and ordered to pay £500 costs.

In mitigation, it was said he had resolved the problem quickly and the business requested a revisit for re-rating, which was carried out on 23 January this year - where the business achieved a food hygiene rating of 4.

Cllr Barbara Brownridge, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Culture, said: “Oldham Council takes food safety very seriously, and anyone who puts the safety of residents at risk face action.

“It’s good that this business has learned its lesson and has since obtained a food hygiene rating of 4. However, no business should allow its hygiene levels to fall that low otherwise we will take them to court.”

Oldham residents can check a food businesses food hygiene rating online by visiting https://ratings.food.gov.uk/

Main image:

What Oldham Council's environmental health officer discovered at BBQ'd on Union Street. Photos: Oldham Council.