Three supermarkets in one town fail hygiene tests

Morrisons in Kirkby received a food hygiene rating of one

Three supermarkets in one town have been told they need to improve after food hygiene failings.

The Morrisons and Iceland stores in Kirkby, Merseyside, were given ratings of one by the Food Standards Agency, and the Co-op on the Field Lane estate was rated zero.

The Co-op said the problems had been resolved since the March inspection, which found poor standards of food handling, the Local Democracy Reporting Service reported.

Morrisons and Iceland were both found to maintain a good standard of food handling and preparation, but were criticised for their food safety standards and the cleanliness of their stores.

'Utmost seriousness'

The Food Standards Agency's website said "urgent improvements" were needed at the Co-op store.

A Co-op spokesman said: "Co-op adheres to the highest of standards.

"Matters have been fully resolved, and we are requesting a return visit to re-score the store."

The Iceland, in St Chad's Parade, was also told major improvements were necessary.

A spokesman said: "Iceland takes safety, hygiene and standards with the utmost seriousness, and is committed to maintaining a safe and clean environment.

"We are currently working with the local authority to understand the context of their last inspection of our Kirkby store, and have requested a re-inspection in the belief that we have addressed any issues that may have affected the store's rating."

Morrisons, on Telegraph Way, was also told it needed to make major improvements.

A spokesman said: "The food safety within our stores is really important to us. We have taken immediate action to address and resolve all issues raised during the inspection.

"We will also be in contact with the local authority to conduct a follow-up inspection in the near future."