Zero-rated Swindon chip shop Mr Cod gets new hygiene rating

Mr Cod on Cricklade Road was initially given the bottom score following an inspection in June with the owners blaming a broken boiler.

This was followed up with another zero rating after a second inspection in August before the fish and chip shop temporarily closed in October.

The takeaway reopened in November after several weeks of locals questioning whether Mr Cod would return.

The fish and chips served at the Swindon takeaway.

'I tried zero-rated Swindon chip shop and it was the worst takeaway I've ever had'

After its back-to-back zero ratings, the takeaway has now been given a new hygiene rating following its latest inspection on Wednesday, December 13.

And Swindon Borough Council’s Environmental Health team were impressed, classing the business as “good” and awarding a four-out-of-five rating.

The new report stated that Mr Cod’s hygienic food handling, which refers to the preparation, cooking, re-heating, cooling and storage of food was to a “very good standard”.

Inspectors also found the cleanliness and condition of both the facilities and building to be “very good”.

This section regards having an appropriate layout, ventilation, hand washing facilities and pest control to enable good food hygiene.

Mr Cod had temporarily been closed for several weeks. (Image: Newsquest)

'I returned to zero-rated Mr Cod to see if it is any better after reopening'

The report stated that Mr Cod’s management of food safety was to a “good” standard which is where the business missed out on full marks.

This refers to the takeaway having a system or checks in place to ensure that the food sold or served at the premises is safe to eat.

It also concerns there being evidence that the staff know about food safety and that the food safety officer has confidence that these standards will be maintained in future.

Following the first zero rating, Juanita Fernandes, who had been the manager of Mr Cod for seven months, explained the reason for the damning report.

The takeaway had received two zero food hygiene ratings. (Image: Newsquest)

“The boiler was broken and there was no hot water but now we have fixed it and applied for another inspection,” she said.

“We are expecting them to come back and we hope to get a previous rating of four back.”

The 38-year-old remains hopeful that customers will return despite the poor rating.

“It was unfortunate for us that day that we lost our rating and we welcome customers back,” said Juanita.

“I assure them that the hygiene will be of top-class quality despite the rating.”

Mr Cod has been approached for further comment on the latest inspection.