Town’s takeaways‘need improvement’

They Viceroy restaurant in Leyland has gone from 1 star to 4 stars in food hygiene.

The damning scores – based on the latest inspections by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) – mean “major improvement” is required.

Ratings are based on how the food is handled, the condition and cleanliness of the premises and the management of the business which includes good record keeping.

Businesses with the low marks have hit back, however.

Spice King was assessed as needing major requirement.

A spokesman defended the standards of the takeaway on Roper Avenue.

He said: “I do not feel that the low rating was justified at all.

“We are a clean and hygienic establishent that serve tasty Indian food.

“I think the score was unfair and I hope it does not effect our business.

“I do not think that the Food Standards Agency even consider that their remarks could damage someone’s whole livlihood.”

Mundy Arms Hungry Horse on Ilkeston Road also received a one-star rating but had not responded to requests for comments as the Ripley & Heanor News went to press.

A further three eateries were given a two-star rating in the inspections, meaning improvement is necessary.

“These are the Canal Inn on Bullbridge Hill, Black Swan on Bowns Hill, and One Stop Stores, Derby Road, Denby.

A total of 105 outlets in Derbyshire failed to reach the minimum three out of five-star rating last year.

Hundreds of outlets across the county, however, were awarded five-star ‘very good’ hygiene ratings.

n You can see the full list of how the area’s eateries were rated on their last inspection by visiting www.ripleyandheanornews.co.uk