AN INDIAN restaurant closed down after health inspectors found evidence of a rat infestation said it took 'immediate action' and daily checks prove the business is now pest free.

South Oxfordshire District Council revealed last week it had closed Anokhi in Wallingford after finding rat droppings throughout the kitchen and storage areas, as well as on shelving in the food preparation area.

The discovery came during an unannounced routine inspection on December 6.

A statement from the High Street business, said: “The issues were predominately located in the back storage rooms, immediate action was undertaken by us and Environmental Health reopened us within one working day of shutting down.

“This is the first incident that has occurred in the past 18 years and our customer’s health and safety is important to us.

“We have had six daily pest reports since the day of closure showing that nothing has been found within the premises.”

READ AGAIN: What inspectors found when they visited

The district council said its environmental health team is continuing to work with the business to help them improve their level of compliance.

Despite the improvements it currently holds a food hygiene score of zero.

When the temporary closure was announced, Caroline Newton, Cabinet member for housing and environment at the council, said: “All businesses serving food must abide by certain standards of health and hygiene.

“The council has a duty to ensure catering companies maintain these standards and if required, as in this case, will take immediate action to help to protect public health. ”

Despite the recent issues the restaurant is popular with customers. On review website Trip Advisor the business has four and a half stars, as well as being awarded a 'certificate of excellence', meaning Anokhi consistently receives top reviews from diners.

'Amazing' food and friendly staff were among the areas praised by customers.

The business boasts being the oldest Indian restaurant in Wallingford adding its menu features dishes that have ‘rural roots with a modern twist’.

Opened in 1999, the restaurant’s website states: “Whether you’re after a restaurant renowned for its fine dining, a place that prides itself on serving the finest, freshest high quality ingredients, or a setting that boasts both simplicity and individuality, you’ll be spoilt for choice when dining at Anokhi Cuisine.”

Visit .anokhi-wallingford.co.uk.