“Spotless” was one customer’s opinion of Andover’s popular town centre café, the Copper Kettle, so café owner, Pauline Bickell was shocked when Environmental Health Officers rated her café as “unsatisfactory” under their new ‘Safe to Eat’ rating scheme. “What seems so unjust is that it gives the impression that the café isn’t clean; nothing could be further from the truth,” said Pauline. “We are meticulous and our customers can see that.  Our café failed mainly because of administrative issues like not maintaining complete records about the fridge temperatures; I know these things are important but it can be very difficult in a busy little café to keep on top of all the admin work –especially as the inspection was in the run up to Christmas when we were rushed off our feet.  I think the officer was quite right to point these things out but what I find so upsetting is that there wasn’t an opportunity to rectify them and get the paperwork done; it was an immediate ‘unsatisfactory’ rating. When you have put heart and sole into building a successful business like this it is heart breaking.” Luckily, Pauline’s customers have voted with their feet – business has actually increased!  “I have had lots of people in here giving their support so I would obviously like to thank everyone.”  Even Test Valley Borough Council recognised that local food businesses try hard to comply. A spokesperson said  "Inspection officers have been very impressed with the speed and thoroughness with which food businesses have responded when action has been needed." Local Councillor Len Gates (above)  commented "Environmental Health must be realistic and distinguish between minor documentation breaches and more serious food hygiene issues. It is important that we raise real standards and not just indulge in box ticking exercises which don’t reflect these standards." 

Comments (1) | Views: 243 | Read more...

Looking for a property or room to let? Have a look at our property section under our classifieds adverts or by clicking here.

We carry a number of adverts each week and advertising on Andover Times is completely free. Here is a preview of some of our current advertisers:

Admirals way room - double £75.00 weekly  inclusive

Huge studio style room - own bathroom & entrance £86 weekly

Lovely smart second floor one bedroomed flat - Lower London road £515 monthly

Room in shared house - could take a couple - £90.00 pw