A TOWN centre kebab shop has hit out at food inspectors after receiving a one-star rating for hygiene.

Chik Mex, in Church Street was inspected by Basingstoke Council’s environmental team on July 2 where the fast food establishment’s rating dropped from two stars to one.

During the inspection the kebab shop staff were told that ‘major improvements’ were need to its cleanliness.

However, staff at the establishment said that the inspector seemed “rushed” and they felt he had not been fair to them when carrying out the assessment.

A spokesperson for Chik Mex said: “When he came in, he was quite rude and it was at a time when we were really busy.

“He just came in and wouldn’t listen to what we were saying.”

The spokesman added: “He said to one member of staff that the rating wouldn’t be given until a full inspection was carried out two weeks later, next thing we know they give us a one.

“Put when they had come for the full inspection everything was deep cleaned and there were no issues at all.”

Highlighted by the health officer, the kebab shop was informed that major improvements were needed to the way it deals with food service and storage.

Having previously inspected in 2017 and having received a two out of five rating, the owners of Chik Mex said the recent inspection was “unfair”.

When the Gazette asked to see the report the borough council said due to “ongoing legal investigation” it could not be released.

Regulatory services manager at the borough council, Robert Draper said: “We have to ensure that various aspects of the food business operation are assessed during an inspection. I am satisfied that a thorough appraisal was completed and that the grading given was appropriate to the premises and documentation presented at the time of the inspection.”