A BURY takeaway has been closed down after it was found infested with cockroaches.

Environmental health inspectors were sent to Bury Kebab House in Market Street after they received a complaint from a customer who had found a cockroach in their chips.

The inspector discovered live and dead cockroaches on the kitchen floor.

Owner Zafar Iqbal was ordered to close immediately pending further investigations.

An extensive German cockroach infestation, ranging from nymphs to full sized adults, and a huge amount of cockroach droppings were found throughout food preparation areas.

Bury Magistrates Court issued a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Order to the business today, preventing it from re-opening until the health risks are removed.

Cllr Sandra Walmsley, cabinet member for strategic housing and support services, said: “It is appalling that a takeaway has been infested like this, putting public safety at risk.

“Bury Council and the public expect all outlets in the borough to adhere to the highest standards of hygiene in preparing food. The importance of health and safety cannot be underestimated in food preparation areas and we will take swift action against those who do not maintain these standards.”

The court also awarded the council costs of £800.