Oxfordshire pub had 'evidence of mice', report says

The Mulberry Pub on Broadway in Didcot was given a one-out-of-five food hygiene rating after it was inspected on September 15.

The Oxford Mail has since obtained the inspection report, which has shown “evidence of mouse activity in the store area” was found with a number of pest entry points needing “adequate proofing” arranged.

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The report added that the pub should also remove “obsolete items” from the yard as it may attract pests.

However, the pub has since turned its one-star rating around and received a five-out-of-five rating after a reinspection on November 9.

A one-out-of-five star rating means that 'major improvement' is needed at the establishment whilst a five-star rating means it is deemed 'very good'.

Abbie Sargison from the pub said: "We use Total Pest Control and closely monitor such activity.

"Prior to the first inspection the cellar ceiling had collapsed. We were advised not to touch it until it had been inspected. Repairs were done the following days."

During the first inspection, raw food such as pancetta was discovered next to ready-to-eat food in the pub’s fridge.

Raw fish was also discovered next to coleslaw, says the report.

The inspector said: “Ensure you store raw foods away from ready-to-eat foods to prevent cross-contamination.

“Ideally use separate fridges, if this is not possible ensure raw food is below ready-to-eat foods.”

It was also identified that the pub was not reheating food to a high enough temperature.

The report stated that foods were being reheated to a temperature of 64C with a minimum of 75C required.

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An ongoing concern identified was also the shelf life for high-risk food was “too long”, the report stated.

It added: “For instance cooked chicken, which the chef said was cooked last night (Thursday).

“This was labelled as use by Monday. You must ensure you provide your food with an appropriate shelf life to prevent the growth of bacteria.

“Ensure you have your shelf life verified to prove it is safe. I recommend high-risk foods are kept for 72 hours.”

There was evidence of mice according to an inspection report (Image: (c) copyright newzulu.com)

After receiving news of an upgraded food hygiene rating, the pub took to social media to thank its punters for their messages.

The message from the pub said: “We would like to thank our customers for the many recent messages of goodwill and support and are delighted that following a re-inspection we have now been awarded a food hygiene rating of five.

“We look forward to seeing everyone soon.”

South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils take part in the Food Standards Agency's National Food Hygiene Rating Scheme.

The inspectors judge establishments with regard to hygienic food handling, cleanliness and the condition of facilities as well as management of food safety.

This allows members of the public to check the hygiene standards of local food businesses using the website www.food.gov.uk/ratings.