Published: Friday, 24th May 2024
A Cannock based food business trading as Mr Kay’s, and its Director Mr Raja Kamran Hussain have been ordered to pay £34,603 in fines and costs following a successful prosecution by Cannock Chase Council.
Mr. Hussain previously appeared at Cannock Magistrate’s Court on 6 February 2023 and both he and his company pleaded guilty to five offences under the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013, including failing to prevent access by pests to the premises.
The Council’s Environmental Health Officers carried out a visit to Mr. Kay’s on 19 March 2021 at Walsall Road, Cannock, following complaints alleging mouldy pizza dough and poor conditions, and that people were sleeping on the premises. The premises appeared closed with roller shutters down. Officers gained access after questioning men leaving the premises with insulated pizza delivery bags. Officers found evidence of rats, defective drains, dirt and grease and poor food hygiene practices. Officers required the restaurant to close immediately.
Despite several adjournments, Mr. Hussain failed to attend his sentencing hearing at Cannock Magistrate’s Court on 17 May 2024. The District Judge imposed fines and costs totalling £26,181 on the company and £8422 on Mr. Hussain.
Councillor Lisa Wilson, Cabinet Member for Environment & Climate Change said: “The Council has a proud record of helping local food businesses comply with legislation, through offering free advice and support. Unfortunately, on this occasion this business was trading behind closed doors. The conditions found by officers were appalling 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.”
Any food business which is in need of free advice can contact the council by telephone 01543 462621.
