Mr Peter McGovern the owner of Willow Tree Tea Rooms, Bridgnorth Road, Stourton, South Staffordshire, attended Kidderminster Magistrates Court on Friday, 6th December, 2024, in relation to a prosecution brought by South Staffordshire Council’s Environmental Health and Licensing Team. He pleaded guilty to offences contrary to Food Safety and Hygiene Regulations.
It was outlined to the Court that conditions in the premises were very poor and well below the standard expected from a food business. The offences included a lack of cleaning, no hot water for food handlers to wash their hands, and an extensive mouse infestation throughout the kitchen and storage areas which led to council officers serving a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice on the owner of the business which immediately closed the business and was required to remain closed until the mouse infestation had been irradicated.
The Judge imposed a fine of £2,000 (with a discount from £3,000 for an early guilty plea), plus victim surcharge £800 with prosecution costs of £3,322.17 totalling a fine of £6.122.17.
Councillor Rita Heseltine said, “South Staffordshire Council has a proud record of helping local food businesses to comply with legislation, through offering free advice and support. This business failed to protect the public and did not act promptly on evidence of rodent activity within the business. The conditions found by officers were an imminent risk to health and a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice had to be served on the business to prevent them from trading.
I am pleased that the court, through the penalties imposed, recognised the seriousness of this matter. We would always encourage food businesses to seek our advice and assistance at the earliest opportunity.”