A restaurant has been closed down due to a mouse infestation.

The Old House Mehana in Lower Stone Street, Maidstone has been ordered to pay £1,993, after an inspection discovered the vermin problem.

It was also found to pose a significant risk of food contamination due to inadequate cleaning.

Maidstone Borough Council placed an emergency prohibition order on the establishment, meaning it had to cease trading immediately.

Inspectors also found there had been poor structural repair to the building.

A court notice on the restaurant door states it has been closed since Friday, July 26.
Despite the notice, messages that read 'building works' have been placed in the front windows.

A number of benches have been placed up against the entrance as well, making it difficult to read the sign.

Inside tables, chairs and even table displays have been stacked up and placed under a clear tarpaulin.

They also appear to be covered in a white powder.

The restaurant opened back in 2015 and specialises in Bulgarian cuisine.

A spokeswoman for the council said: "Officers from the food and safety team are continuing to work with the business, with the expectation it will be able to reopen in the near future, when all necessary works have been undertaken."

The inspection report has not yet been made available while the council continue to investigate and carry out proceedings. KentOnline approached the restaurant for comment.

A representative said it was closed due to building works taking place, and the staff being on holiday.

To read more about restaurants, bars and cafes in Kent with poor hygiene ratings, click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Maidstone