Kebab shop rat infestation leads to longer closure

The kebab shop owners initially denied that there was any rodent activity

A kebab shop will remain closed after a judge was shown evidence of a major rat infestation.

Shinwari Kebab, located on Manchester Road in Swindon, was initially forced to close its doors after Swindon Borough Council's Environmental Health team responded to a complaint from a member of the public.

During the visit on 5 June, officers found rat droppings and evidence of gnawing in the food preparation areas, along with the smell of urine.

The inspectors noted there was an imminent risk to the health of customers and shut the premises to protect the public.

'Extreme case'

District Judge Kirsty Allman, sitting at Swindon Magistrates' Court on Thursday, imposed a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Order on the shop after being presented with evidence of the inspection by the council.

Rat urine stains and droppings were found on the lids of plastic containers for spices within the kitchen.

Gnawed flour bags were also found on shelves among the rat droppings.

Holes were found in walls, floors and doors making it easy for the rodents to enter the premises.

The shop, on Manchester Road in Swindon, was inspected on 5 June

The cleaning standards were also found to be poor with a build-up of debris and rodent smears on floors and walls.

The lack of appropriate cleaning chemicals for food contact surfaces was also noted while containers, utensils, chopping boards and crockery were stored openly in areas of rodent activity.

Handwashing and general personal hygiene was also observed to be poor.

The emergency prohibition order granted by the court allows the council to keep the shop shut until it is satisfied that the safety of customers can be met.

Councillor Jim Grant, Cabinet Member for Joint Working and Communities, said: "The conditions found in this kebab shop were appalling."

He added: "This is an extreme case but it is a reminder to all food business owners of their responsibilities when it comes to food hygiene.

"I'd like to personally thank the member of the public who reported this infestation to us, so our environmental health officers could take prompt action to protect the health of customers."