A CRACKDOWN on filthy takeaways and chaotic kitchens has begun across Pendle.

Food hygiene ratings are being displayed across the borough for anywhere serving food to the public, from fast food shops to pubs, hotels and restaurants.

Zero-rated premises will require urgent improvements, while those with one or two points would need major and significant improvements respectively. Five-star outlets are judged the best-performing eateries.

Several well-known premises in Nelson have already come under the microscope and passed with flying colours.

Some eateries, like the Follies pizzeria and kebab shop, in Manchester Road, Nelson, have achieved a five-point rating.

Others have 'satisfactory' inspections, notching up three points, such as the Master Chef takeway, in North Street, Nelson, and Connelly's fish and chip shop in Glen Way, Brierfield.

So far notices are only being displayed in show windows but eventually the complete record will be available online for would-be customers.

Expert officers will examine how hygienically food is prepared, cooked, reheated and stored, the condition of buildings and how well handling records are compiled.

Launching the scheme, Coun Chris Tennant said: “The idea behind the scheme is to give consumers easy access to transparent and consistent information on hygiene standards in any business where you can buy or eat food.

“In short, it gives consumers more confidence in the places they eat and buy food from.

“The knock-on effect is that businesses are encouraged to improve and maintain their standards and do better than their competitors.

“Of course, good food hygiene ratings will be good for business whilst poor food hygiene ratings may make customers think twice.”

Coun James Starkie, who has now taken over the role following the elections, is set to meet with environmental health officers for a briefing on the scheme, and similar work.