A TAKEAWAY restaurant in Silloth has picked up a zero hygiene rating - the lowest possible score - following a recent inspection.

The K L Express Chinese takeaway in Silloth was the subject of a routine inspection by Allerdale Council environmental health officers, which saw it receive a zero rating - which determines that the establishment requires “urgent improvement”.

It is currently the only outlet in Silloth to have a zero rating, with the second lowest rated places picking up three stars.

Among the finds by inspectors was out of date food, as well as no hand soap for staff to wash their hands.

The report reads: “The standard of cleanliness to the food preparation and storage areas was generally poor, in particular below and behind equipment.

“Of particular concern were the wok range and underneath and behind equipment and worktables in both the kitchen and servery area.

“The standard of cleanliness throughout the premises must be improved. Clean the above and maintain in a clean condition.”

It went on to say: “At the time of our visit there was no soap available for use at the hand sink in the toilets.

“This is the only facility for staff use therefore soap must be provided along with a means of hygienic hand drying to ensure hand washing is carried out.”

The establishment was also told that all food must be covered to avoid contamination and that food such as cooked rice must be cooled and placed into a refrigerator within 90 minutes of cooking.

They were also ordered not to store food in the cellar, as the area is not suitable to be used as a store room. Out of date stock must also be removed, as well as other clutter from the area. In addition, the takeaway was told to ensure their food safety management system was completed.

It was given a score of 20 out of 25 for food hygiene and safety procedures, and for structural and cleanliness requirements. For management and documented procedures it received a score of 20 out of 30. The three scores are then added up to give the outlet a total score - with 50 or higher landing a zero rating.

A spokeswoman for Allerdale Council said: “Following a routine inspection of the business by the council’s environmental health department, K L Express was issued a hygiene rating of zero as it failed to meet the necessary criteria required for a positive rating.”

A follow-up inspection will be carried out in due course, added the council.

“We are working with the business to help improve their rating and will be carrying out a follow up inspection in due course.”

When approached by The Cumberland News, K L Express issued the following statement: “We can assure you that all necessary health and safety steps have been taken to ensure that we provide safe food and products for our customers.”