Two businesses in the Bolton area have been hit with large fines for the use of illegal workers.

A government report has been published listing the penalties given for a breach of the rules regarding workers from abroad.

And two enterprises Bolton have been penalised.

The fines were given between April and June this year.

The Old Lane Store, on Old Lane in Little Hulton, has been hit with a fine of £15,000.

The government website states Zohaib Arshad was the liable party.

He disputed the claim stating he was not the person responsible.

The K2 Taj Chippery, located on Crescent Street in Bolton, was hit with a fine of £10,000.

Its owner could not be reached for a comment on the matter.

They were two out of 20 in the north west region to be hit with a penalty.

A Home Office spokesperson said: “Illegal working undercuts honest employers, puts vulnerable migrants at risk of exploitation, cheats legitimate job seekers out of employment and defrauds the public purse.

“Tackling this damaging crime is a key Government priority.

“The government is bringing forward a New Plan for Immigration that is fair but firm, which will stop the abuse of the system and expedite the removal of those who have no right to be here.”

Guidelines state an employer must check a prospective worker has the right to work in the UK before hiring them.

Changes brought in as a result of Covid mean a boss can receive documents proving someone has the right to work here digitally.

If an applicant cannot show documents an employer is required to check with the Home Office on their immigration status.

Last year a Bolton business was found to be using illegal workers during a raid.

Immigration officers visited Grillsters on Derby Street in August and two people were found to be working there who had no valid leave to remain in the country.