The store in Middlesbrough was ordered to close when Environmental Health Officers (EHO) discovered evidence of a serious rodent infestation whilst inspecting the property in June 2009.

The inspectors found dead mice in the store, mouse droppings on shelves, in food packets and even mice living inside a bucket next to a meat counter. The EHOs ordered the closure of the store to protect public health.
One of the EHO’s who inspected the store commented: ‘The owner knew there was a problem with mice but he had failed to realise the severity of the infestation. He appeared shocked when live mice were found in the butchery part of his store.

‘Whenever pests, such as mice, are found in a food business it has the potential to cause a serious health risk.’
The shop was re-opened after a week when EHOs were satisfied the pests had been eradicated.
The owner of the store admitted failing to manage risks to food safety, failing to prevent a mouse infestation and offering unsafe food for sale. He was fined £6,000 and was ordered to pay £479 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.