A Durham takeaway faces fines after an inspection revealed fly infestations and unsanitary conditions, posing health risks.
Upon arrival, officers observed widespread fly presence throughout the premises. They also noted unclean cookery tools and unsanitary food preparation areas. Quick repairs to the building were necessary because Public health was at risk.
The Hello 7 manager voluntarily closed the restaurant to address the identified issues. Subsequent inspections by officers twice a week later deemed Hello 7 safe for reopening.
Chunyan Chen, 33, director of Hello O Limited, the company owning Hello 7, pleaded guilty to six hygiene violations of England’s 2013 regulations. The inspection occurred shortly after the restaurant’s opening, but Hello 7 acted swiftly to correct the deficiencies. Chen, from Framwellgate Moor, immediately admitted guilt in court.
Magistrates fined Chen £2,880 for all six offenses. In addition, she was ordered to pay an extra £1,152, with costs of £600 added to her bill.
Ian Harrison from Durham Council emphasized the importance of maintaining clean food preparation environments and the need for businesses to keep their equipment clean to prevent health risks. He explained that dirty locations risk people’s health.
Although Hello 7 attempted to resolve the fly issue, persistent uncleanness remained a concern. The pest control company and inspecting officers witnessed the violations firsthand, representing a significant breach of food safety regulations.
The case underscores the consequences of neglecting hygiene standards. Harrison urged businesses to seek guidance by contacting the health team via phone at 03000 261 016 or email at ehcp@durham.gov.uk. Durham conducts routine inspections of food establishments and employs a rating system, details of which can be found at durham.gov.uk/foodhygienerating.