A FREEDOM of Information request has revealed the grim findings of a food hygiene inspection at a takeaway in Moreton.

Saughall Massie Fish and Chips on Saughall Massie Road was inspected by Environmental Health officer on September 21 2022 and the report obtained by the Globe revealed that there was "widespread activity of mice throughout the premises".

The report states: "Mice droppings were found at floor level throughout the premises behind and under equipment, fridges, freezers and fittings.

"The manager, who was present at the time of the inspection insisted that the floors behind the True Fridge has been cleaned the week before my visit, which would indicate that the droppings found during the inspection were from fresh activity." 

Ratings under the National Food Hygiene Rating Scheme showed the takeaway scored the poorest rating in all categories. They were rated 25 out of 0 for hygiene (25 being the worst), 25 for structure and 30 out of 0 for confidence management (30 being the worst).

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During the visit, a voluntary prohibition notice was issued closing the premises. The inspector re-visited on September 23 2022 to monitor the progress and it was noted that a pest control contractor had been called in to monitor on a weekly basis going forward.

The report detailed that until it could be confirmed that the pest activity had been "completely eradicated" the business must continue to ensure that "prior to any food preparation taking place and on a daily basis, inspect the premises for live or dead mice."

The report also said: "When I arrived a washing up bowl of rice, was on the shelf in the rear prep area and you explained that it had been cooked after lunchtime that day.

"It remained at room temperature the entire time I was there, which was two hours, and it had already been cooled down when I got there. This is not acceptable."

The report also revealed there were risks of contamination, numerous flies found in the kitchen, the waste bin did not have a lid and a number of kitchen equipment was dirty and in poor condition.

Saughall Massie Fish and Chips were contacted for a comment and did not respond.

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