A PIZZA takeaway owner in Woolwich has been fined for poor hygiene after mouse droppings were found inside delivery boxes.

Wagas Amin, who runs Pizza Inn, admitted a number of food hygiene offences and was stung with a £2,320.62 fine at Bexley Magistrates Court on December 3.

Greenwich Environmental Health Officers uncovered a filthy kitchen with mouse faeces on work surfaces, inside a box of onions and in pizza boxes during an inspection on October 26.

The business in Woolwich High Street had a contract with a pest control company which had noted that "mice were active in all areas" a fortnight before the inspection and suggested improvements which had not been followed.

The restaurant also had no hot water for thorough cleaning and was closed for two days while the mouse infestation was controlled and the water restored.

Since re-opening, Greenwich officers say they are satisfied the infestation has been dealt with but are continuing action to bring the business to an acceptable standard.

Greenwich Council cabinet member for community safety and environment Councillor Maureen O’Mara said: "The Royal Borough of Greenwich is committed to working with owners to ensure they operate safe food businesses within the law.

"The vast majority achieve this, but we never tolerate risks to customer health through poor standards of hygiene and when owners such as Mr Amin allow food hygiene to deteriorate, we will swiftly pursue legal action."

Customers can check whether a business has a Food Hygiene Award at royalgreenwich.gov.uk/foodhygiene or with certificates displayed on the premises.