Rats force school kitchen to shut

Inspectors discovered the rat problem just before the start of the new term

A secondary school canteen on Anglesey has been forced to close after health officials discovered rats.

Inspectors visited Ysgol David Hughes in Menai Bridge just before the start of term, when the rodent infestation was uncovered.

Food preparation and storage in the kitchen has been halted while the issue is addressed.

The school's 1,400 students are being offered pre-wrapped cold food until the canteen is given the all-clear.

The deputy headteacher, George Jones, said some pupils had decided to bring packed lunches to school, while others were using local shops to buy snacks.

"In all honesty, we are managing OK, the situation is under control," insisted Mr Jones.

"We hope the kitchen will reopen as soon as possible."

Anglesey Council said its officials visited the school on 29 August, when evidence of a rodent problem was discovered in one area of the kitchen.

Precautionary

A spokesperson said: "A treatment was carried out and food safety advice was given to the school.

"Following discussions with all relevant parties, it was decided that the kitchen would not be used for food preparation or storage.

"All open foods stored within the kitchen were disposed of as a precautionary measure."

The canteen at Ysgol David Hughes has undergone extensive construction work over the summer break, and will go through a "thorough deep clean" before it is reopened, said the council.

"Treatment is currently ongoing, and officers will continue to monitor the situation over the coming days," added a spokesperson.

"Food preparation and service is being carried out in an area where there is no risk to public health.

"Until the kitchen re-opens, only cold food, Panini's and pre-wrapped foods will be sold."