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Pub landlords in Great Hampden are facing fines of more than £4,000 for a spate of food hygiene breaches.

Constantine Andreas Lucas and Louise Lucas, of The Hampden Arms, appeared at High Wycombe Magistrates’ this week after the case was brought by the Environmental Health Team at Wycombe District Council.

The offences included:

  • Failure to keep the food premises clean and maintained in good repair and condition (A fine of £369 each).
  • Failure to ensure that articles, fittings and equipment which food comes into contact with were effectively cleaned and, where necessary, disinfected to avoid risk of contamination (A fine of £369 each).
  • Failure to put in place, implement and maintain a food management plan. (A fine of £369 each).

The couple was also ordered to pay £876.66 each, making a total of £1753.32, and a £37 victim surcharge each, making the complete amount to pay £4041.32.

They now have 21 days to appeal against the sentence.

Cabinet member for environment at Wycombe District Council Cllr Julia Adey, said: “Bringing a prosecution like this is a last resort but it’s important that we take action where we can’t work with a business to help them get food hygiene issues sorted out.

“It’s great to enjoy a meal out but as customers we don’t get to see what goes on behind the scenes in the kitchen.

“Our inspectors are the eyes and ears who make sure that what we’re eating is stored and prepared properly.

“Their main aim is to work to support businesses and help them to meet the right standards.

“On the one hand it’s a shame that this rural pub is now facing a large bill because of their failure to meet national standards, but on the other, it does show people that we will take action if necessary.”