In December 2023 at the same court, as the food business operator of Nishan Cash & Carry Limited, 8-10 Southborough Terrace, Leamington Spa, CV31 2DT he pleaded guilty to nine hygiene offences, which had been discovered by Warwick District Council’s Food Safety team during a visit to the premises on 19 January 2023.

The Court heard that persistent failure to take appropriate action to control a rat and mouse infestation had led to the cash and carry being closed. On sentencing, the Magistrates agreed that Mr Rasathurai had shown a “flagrant disregard for his responsibilities”.

The Company was fined £14,000 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £2,000, having been given credit for an early guilty plea. In addition, in his own right as being responsible for the day to day running of the shop, he was fined an additional £8,800 and a £2,000 victim surcharge; again, credit was given for his early guilty plea.

Full costs were awarded to Warwick District Council and the bench thanked the Council for bringing the matter before them.

Despite the intervention of Warwick District Council’s Food Safety team and the advice given on making improvements, Mr Rasathurai consistently failed to take corrective measures.

Warwick District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Communities and Leisure, Councillor Jim Sinnott commented: “We take this kind of offence very seriously. Food business operators who do not maintain safe and hygienic standards will be held to account for their actions. All decisions to prosecute will be taken in accordance with the Council’s Enforcement Policy, this policy recognises the central and local government concordat on good enforcement (Enforcement Concordat).

“This case successfully brought to court by Council officers, highlights the need for food providers to ensure they maintain safe standards and make use of the various resources available to them. As part of our Regulator and Business Charter, the Council works hard to promote success in business whilst continuing to provide public protection.

"Food business operators should adhere to advice provided by officers during routine inspections and make use of free information and guidelines on legislation available to them on the Food Standards Agency website.”