A cockroach infestation and dirt encrusted work surfaces led to a restaurant being fined £21,000.

Tony Chan, who owns the East Inn in Elstree High Street, pleaded guilty at Watford Magistrates Court on November 15 to a number of hygiene related offences.

A routine inspection carried out by Environmental Health officers in February showed the restaurant was dirty, abd had broken fridges, an inadequate hot water supply.

Due to the poor conditions and a cockroach infestation, the restaurant was judged to be a risk to public health and was closed temporarily.

Mr Chan pleaded guilty to 13 offences and was fined £7,120, while East Inn Ltd pleaded guilty to 15 offences and was fined £14,120.

Councillor Jean Heywood, who is responsible for environmental health at Hertsmere Borough Council, said: "We would rather not have to take food businesses to court as we would much rather see restaurants and takeaways with exemplary hygiene standards.

“Poor standards of food preparation and handling can have a very serious effect on public health and we will take action.

"The level of fines issued by the magistrates shows how seriously this matter is taken by the courts."