NEW owner of Stockton Fryer, a fish and chip shop in Stockton Heath, is determined to improve the takeaway’s zero hygiene rating after taking over.

The Stockton Fryer received a rating of one by the Food Standard Agency in 2023, but a recent inspection in January decreased the rating to zero.

Now, new owner Sagvan Omer has taken over the lease of the fish and chip shop and has been working around the clock to try and improve the standards.

“When I got there, it was very dirty to be honest, and I’ve changed a lot – I’m changing everything,” he said.

“I get there at two o’clock and finish cleaning at four o’clock in the morning.”

A Freedom of Information Request submitted by the Warrington Guardian revealed the hygiene report detailed a litany of issues including a build-up of dead insects inside an electric fly killer, and mould inside the fridge and freezer door seals.

Inspections carried out by the Food Standard Agency result in a rating being given to each establishment, with five being excellent and zero needing urgent improvement.

Sagvan, who took over the lease a month ago, has been working to try and improve the Stockton Fryer’s rating.

“For two or three weeks it’s only been cleaning, cleaning, cleaning,” said Sagvan.

“It’s been very hard, it’s been very quiet.”

Sagvan doesn’t know when the Food Standard Agency will return to the Stockton Fryer but hopes the rating will improve when they do.