A CHINESE takeaway has been shut down by the courts after magistrates heard there was 'an imminent risk of injury to public health'.

As reported in the Daily Echo, a catalogue of problems were discovered at China Bamboo in Seabourne road, Southbourne on October 24.

The inspectors found meat was stored on the floor of an outdoor store, where rodent droppings were also found.

There was not hot water for hand washing as the boiler wasn't on. When it was switched on, it failed to reach a minimum temperature.

Some cooked meat was being stored at room temperature. A defective under-counter chiller was also found.

The takeaway was given a zero rating out of five after a report said cleaning standards were 'unsuitable' and frozen food was being thawed at room temperature.

On Thursday, December 13, magistrates at Poole made an emergency prohibition order to closure the takeaway following a Bournemouth council application.

Prosecutors said the combined use of the premises and its equipment involves an "imminent risk of injury to health".

As a result, magistrates ordered that the eatery ceases to be used as a Chinese takeaway or other similar food business.

Manager Vivian Hong, who attended and did not oppose the application, was also ordered to pay £1,547.90 to Bournemouth council before June 13 next year.

Council officials had initially ordered takeaway bosses to make improvements. A pest control officer was due to visit the premises. Manager were also ordered to maintain a supply of hot water at all times, ensure regular hand washing took place and repair the chiller.

However, when inspectors returned five days later, the boiler was still in need of repair and the external store room had not been 'pest-proofed'.

Managers were once again ordered to carry out a deep clean.

The takeaway served a range of meals, including chicken, beef, pork, seafood and duck dishes.