Blackpool food business operator fined after inspectors uncover rat infestation

Rat droppings on the premises

A Blackpool food business operator has been fined in relation to seven food hygiene offences

Joginder Paul, 48, the food business operator of Mickey Finns, 24 Central Drive, Blackpool, attended court on October 19, 2022, where he pleaded guilty to the offences.

He appeared in court again, on December 7, 2022, for sentencing.

On March 17, 2022, Blackpool Council’s Food Control Officers inspected the fish and chip restaurant to discover a rodent infestation.

Officers found a large amount of rat droppings in the basement of the establishment, which was being used for food storage and preparation.

Potatoes were found on the floor of the basement, offering a food source, and damage was found to the fabric of the building, giving points of access to the pests. A waste pipe to the toilet facilities in the basement was also not capped correctly, again allowing for access through the drainage system, which also resulted in foul sewage smells entering the basement.

The court heard how officers continued their inspection of the premises, to find a dead rat behind a freezer to the ground floor service area.

Inspecting officers deemed there was an imminent risk to health, and closed the business immediately.

An application was then made to Blackpool Magistrates’ Court for an emergency prohibition order, to keep the food business closed until officers were satisfied that the health risk no longer existed.

The business was given permission to reopen on March 31, 2022, following extensive maintenance work to the basement, and multiple visits from a pest control contractor.

Mr Paul was fined £1,314, and was ordered to pay £2,000 costs and £130 victim surcharge.

Magistrates also made an order under food safety legislation, prohibiting Mr Paul from being involved in the management of a food business.

Mr Paul has received multiple warnings over the years that he has been responsible for this food business, and has failed to take heed.

Cllr Neal Brookes, Blackpool Council cabinet member with responsibilities for public safety and enforcement, said: “We are pleased that this case was successfully prosecuted for food hygiene offences.

“Blackpool Council will not tolerate such a blatant lack of regard for the safety of its residents and visitors, and the sentence awarded is reflective of that.”

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