'Filthy' West Country restaurant infested with rats kept serving food to customers

Inspectors at the 'filthy' restaurant saw a live rat

A grim discovery was made at a Cornwall restaurant, which remained open despite being riddled with rats. The establishment, 12 Beach Road, continued to serve customers, oblivious to the health risks posed by the infestation.

During a court hearing, it was revealed that food hygiene inspectors from the council visited the eatery on October 18, 2023, and were met with "filthy conditions and an active rat infestation". The restaurant had neglected to put in place necessary systems to ensure the safety of the food served.

Cornwall Council reported that upon inspection, the cleanliness of the food equipment and premises structure was found wanting, with significant grime accumulation. A disturbing amount of both old and new rodent droppings were discovered in areas designated for storing and preparing food and drinks.

In a particularly alarming incident, an inspector spotted a live rat in the corridor next to the kitchen.

The venue's disregard for hygiene standards had previously earned it a food hygiene rating of zero a year prior to the latest inspection. It is also associated with the Longstore brand, which operates in Truro and Charlestown near St Austell, all part of Pollocks Pub Company Ltd, reports Cornwall Live.

In response to the findings of the October 18, 2023, inspection, the council stated: "Following the inspection on October 18, 2023, they agreed to voluntarily close the premises whilst the infestation was dealt with and to undertake a deep clean. Further investigation indicated that there had been an ongoing rodent infestation at the premises for some time, during which they continued to trade, putting their customers at risk."

On October 8, Pollocks Pub Company Ltd, which manages a selection of eateries and watering holes across Cornwall, admitted to three charges under the Food Safety and Hygiene Regulations (England) 2013 at Bodmin Magistrates' Court. The company was directed to pay a £1,000 fine, a victim surcharge of £400, and to cover costs of £3,426.

The bench highlighted these as grievous violations that could endanger public health and stressed that establishments must earn their food ratings rather than assume them. Cornwall Council's Councillor Martyn Alvey, who oversees enforcement and public protection, commented: "Clearly the conditions at these premises were far below the required standard. This business knew it had a rodent problem but failed to address it.

"I hope this case acts a reminder to other food businesses that we will not hesitate to prosecute where members of the public are put at risk in this way."

The Pollocks portfolio includes the establishments The Longstore with its harbourside barbecue HarbourQ, Short and Strong, The Cellar (previously known as The Winestore), and Springtide in Charlestown, alongside The Longstore Lemon Street in Truro, 12 Beach Road in Newquay, and Sharksfin in Mevagissey.

This summer, the renowned eatery 12 Beach Road and the popular Dead Famous cocktail bar and nightclub were put on the market. These two establishments, commanding stunning views of Newquay Bay and its famous surfing beaches, were offered for sale either as a package deal or as separate ventures with a combined asking price of £2.5 million.

SBC Property, managing the sale proceedings, disclosed that both venues previously functioned as one under the names ChyBar and Koola Club. Over recent years, the property was partitioned, allowing the main bar and restaurant area to be leased to Longstore/Pollocks Pub Co.

The estate agency noted: "The Dead Famous Bar Restaurant is currently operated by our client, who now wishes to sell this business as well. Previously, our client operated the entire site as The Chy Bar and Koola Club. Any prospective purchaser would have the opportunity to either run two sites, or reincorporate the entire site, subject to any necessary planning consent."