Yarm restaurant owner jailed for shocking hygiene lapses

A Yarm restaurant has been shut down and its owner jailed after inspectors found the kitchen in a filthy condition.

48-year-old Alomgir Qureshi of Brisbane Grove, Stockton, was handed the prison sentence after a council inspector described conditions at the Chai Wallah on Yarm High Street as among the worst he had seen in 20 years.

The restaurant was given a zero rating, 'requiring urgent improvement' on September 10 last year.

Officers had discovered dirty food preparation and storage areas, clothing, containers, equipment, shelves and pipework.

They noted large volumes of food stored at room temperature and a lack of hand-washing or hygiene practice and knowledge.

Qureshi has already admitted eight food safety and hygiene offences.