Shop boss fined over mice

Lawrence Duckhouse, who runs West End Wines in Rugeley, was found in breach of food hygiene regulations following an inspection by Cannock Chase Council.

Mr Duckhouse said the business was now 'maintained to a very high standard'.

He was taken to court by Cannock Chase Council after its officers discovered 'dirty and greasy surfaces, filthy equipment, mouse activity and food at risk of contamination'.

But more than a year since the inspection in October 2012, Mr Duckhouse says his shop no longer makes food on site – and that this is the first and only problem he has had in 10 years.

"I have had just one complaint over the last 10 years which I would consider to be a sign of fantastic service," said Mr Duckhouse. "At the time of the inspection both my staff and myself would clean the surfaces before preparing food and all staff were qualified. We no longer make food here now and the shop is maintained to a very high standard."

After the Anson Street store was inspected, a deep clean and pest control work was ordered and Mr Duckhouse was told not to make or sell sandwiches.

Environmental health officer for the council, Natalie Barrow, said. "An inspection of the shop carried out in October 2012 revealed a number of serious food hygiene issues, including dirty and greasy surfaces, filthy equipment, mouse activity, food at risk of contamination, gnawed food and dirty touch points such as fridge door handles and light switches.

"A total of thirteen mice were caught in a six day period.

"Mice contaminate food as they carry bacteria on their body, tail and feet and leave urine and droppings over any surfaces and packaging they walk over."

The shop remains open and is now fully complying with the necessary regulations.

As a result of his breaches last year, Mr Duckhouse was fined £4,192 by Stafford Magistrates Court when he appeared before them on December 4.