Takeaway owner prosecuted following closure

A Leeds takeaway owner has been prosecuted for food hygiene failings after his premises were closed last year.

Owner of RFC,11a Cherry Row in Burmantofts, Govan Amin was today fined £750 and ordered to pay costs of £1,567 and a £70 victim surcharge.

Leeds magistrates found Amin found guilty of failing to put in place measures to control pests, failing to protect food from contamination and failing to keep equipment clean.

Environmental health officers shut down RFC having issued a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice in October 2014 after they found evidence of rats and various hygiene issues.

Days later Leeds magistrates granted a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Order to ensure the premises remained closed until concerns about cleanliness and risks to public health had been resolved.

Amin was only allowed to reopen the takeaway once necessary pest control treatment, cleaning and disinfection had been completed to the satisfaction of inspectors.

Councillor Mark Dobson, executive member for environmental protection and community safety, said:

“Closing a business seems fairly drastic but it’s a clear indication that we won’t take any chances with your health.

“I sincerely hope that this case sends a strong message that if you operate a food business, hygiene and safety has to be your number one priority. If not, you risk severe financial penalties and damage your reputation.”

Leeds City Council regulates all food businesses in Leeds and environmental health officers regularly inspect restaurants, takeaways and shops to ensure they comply with strict food safety legislation.

The outcome of these inspections is a rating based on the Food Standard Agency’s national food hygiene rating scheme.

You can check ratings at http://ratings.food.gov.uk/.

Businesses can contact the food safety team at Leeds City Council for advice and residents can report any concerns on 0113 247 6286 or food.safety@leeds.gov.uk.