A Maidstone curry house forced to shut because of a cockroach infestation is now pest-free, according to bosses.

Tandoor Mahal, in Medway Street, has been closed since February 6 after health inspectors at Maidstone Council intervened.

However, brothers Shiper and Shalim Karim, who run the business - which went into liquidation last month - say that after multiple visits, pest controllers have confirmed there are no more bugs.

The siblings say they are expecting a visit from council officers this week and, if they get the all-clear, intend to reopen on Friday.

The pair have paid up to £20,000, borrowed from family and friends, for a restaurant-wide refurbishment including new kitchen equipment and electrics.

Owner Shiper Karim said: “We are taking no risks.

“It’s a brand new kitchen and we are ready to move on.”

On February 11, a hygiene emergency prohibition order was placed on the restaurant at Medway Magistrates Court.

The action came after a health inspector spotted a cockroach crawling up Shalim’s tie.

It will remain in place until the council is satisfied there are no imminent health risks.

A spokeswoman for Maidstone Council said: "The council is anticipating that a food safety officer will visit the Tandoor Mahal restaurant at some point this week but is unable to confirm exactly the time and date of when this is to take place."

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