A RUNCORN takeaway has been closed down by Halton Council due to poor hygiene and the owner could face prosecution.

Pizza Hot in High Street was shut after environmental health inspectors discovered poor standards of cleaning and food handling practices that posed a serious risk to public health.

Problems included inadequate hand washing and toilet facilities, rubbish and waste fat stored in food preparation areas, dirty walls, floors and equipment and poor food handling practices.

An emergency prohibition notice was issued last Monday and a court order closing the premises until the risk has been removed was granted on Thursday.

Clr Phil Harris, board member for environmental health, said: “The majority of food premises in the borough reach a good standard and are compliant with the law.

“However, we will not hesitate to take similar action against any premises that pose a risk to public health.”

The council is considering prosecuting the proprietor.