COUNCIL environment officers closed a Nelson food business with immediate effect after rat droppings were discovered in the kitchen.

Dial a Samosa in Leeds Road, Nelson, makes the spicy Indian snacks for businesses to sell on to their customers.

Pendle council officers carried out an unannounced inspection on October 10 and found rat droppings, gnawed wood, dirt and debris in the food preparation area.

Its officers also spotted holes which gave rodents access to the building.

Philip Mousdale, the authority's corporate director, said: “We’re committed to ensuring businesses operate safely in our borough and we’ll take tough action where they’re found to put the public at risk.

“It was clear that the building was rat infested so we had no option but to serve the owner with a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice to close the business with immediate effect.”

On Friday, Pendle Council presented Burnley Magistrates’ Court with evidence of the findings, which included photographs.

It was granted a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Order and costs totalling £1,300.

The order means that Dial a Samosa can’t reopen until Pendle Council is satisfied the premises are clean, free from rats and there is no imminent risk to health.

Cllr Asjad Mahmood, Pendle council's environmental health boss, said: “This is a serious and concerning case and I’m pleased our officers took action quickly.

"Rats carry diseases which pose a serious risk to public health.

"The order will remain in place until the matter is resolved.

“It’s pleasing that the owner of Dial a Samosa is working with us to eradicate the problems.

“We’ve given them clear instructions on what they need to do to remove the health risks and help them reopen the business.”

Before Dial a Samosa can reopen, Pendle Council environmental health officers will re-inspect the premises to make sure the issues regarding rodents have been resolved.