Tea Room Owner Fined Following “Extensive Mouse Infestation” Discovery

A tea room owner has been fined after council inspectors uncovered an “extensive mouse infestation” at the establishment. Peter McGovern admitted guilt to violations of food safety and hygiene regulations concerning the Willow Tree Tea Rooms, located in Stourton, Staffordshire. He was issued a total fine of £6,122.17 at Kidderminster Magistrates Court on December 6, as reported by South Staffordshire Council. The council stated that the premises fell significantly short of the standards anticipated for a food establishment, noting the presence of a mouse infestation across the kitchen and storage zones, and an absence of hot water for staff to wash their hands. Council officials issued an emergency prohibition notice, leading to the closure of the business until the mouse infestation could be resolved. Councillor Rita Heseltine commented: “This business failed to protect the public and did not act promptly on evidence of rodent activity within the business.” She further stated: “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.” Councillor Heseltine added: “I am pleased that the court, through the penalties imposed, recognised the seriousness of this matter.” She concluded: “We would always encourage food businesses to seek our advice and assistance at the earliest opportunity.” The authority indicated that a judge levied a fine of £2,000, along with a victim surcharge of £800 and prosecution costs amounting to £3,322.17. BBC Stoke & Staffordshire can be followed on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites and provides information regarding its approach to external linking.