THE owner of a takeaway in Hayes was hit with a £4,000 penalty after a routine inspection uncovered a host of hygiene offences.  

Melanius Augustine, 43, owner of Jaffnas on the Uxbridge Road, failed to keep his premises clean.  

During an inspection in November 2019, Hillingdon Council officers found a thermometer probe encased in dirt and grease, a chest freezer with food debris in it, a deep-fat fryer with solid oil inside and a microwave filled with food.  

Magistrates at Uxbridge heard how the owner had previously been warned in 2018 to improve conditions but failed to undertake training, operate adequate temperature control or adopt food safety procedures.

There was no method for cleaning or disinfecting, nor any supply of hot water.  

Mr Augustine claimed he was unable to clean the premises due to a bad arm.  

He pleaded guilty to four offences relating to food and hygiene and was fined £2,000. In total, including costs, he was ordered to pay £4,120.