Dead mice found in restaurant

Blackburn magistrates heard that environmental health officers made the grim discoveries when they visited Papa Luigi's, formerly Tiggi's, in King William Street, Blackburn.

The random inspection was carried out on January 5 when, as well as evidence of vermin activity, the kitchen and food storage areas were found to be in a generally dirty condition.

But after his company had been fined £3,000 with £1,718 costs, Managing Director John Hilton, said he wished to apologise to customers and pledged there would be no repeat of the lapse in standards.

The manager and head chef had both been replaced since the inspection, the court heard.

After the hearing, Mr Hilton said: "Anyone who comes to the restaurant is welcome to visit the kitchen and inspect the premises."

Hilton Leisure (NW) Ltd, of Wigan Road, Euxton, pleaded guilty to six charges.

Ruby Sagar, prosecuting, said that as well as the dead mice and droppings, several gaps allowed rodents access to the premises.

The dead cockroach was found in a light fitting. and fridges and a microwave oven were found to be contaminated with old food.

She said the inspectors made recommendations but had to re-visit on four more occasions before they were satisfied.

Jonathan Clarke, defending, said the breach of regulations was down to the failings of staff and he said the manager and head chef had been replaced.

"There was a food management system in place and they would have been aware of what was required," said Mr Clarke. "The problem was the system was not implemented."

Mr Clarke said the restaurant was situated under what used to be a cinema and it was only since work began to dismantle that in August that the problem started.

"These matters have been rectified and there will be no repeat," said Mr Clarke.

"A new member of staff has been appointed with specific responsibility for health and safety and food hygiene matters and they will make sure this doesn't happen again."