Firm has 'cleaned up' (From Barry And District News)

Firm has 'cleaned up'

THE DIRECTOR of the Fresh Bacon Company claims the firm has cleaned up its act after being fined 18,000 for six offences under food safety and hygiene legislation.

The company's factory on Ty Verlon Trading Estate, Barry, was temporarily closed down last August after health inspectors found a mouse running around with a piece of bacon in its mouth and maggots on a meat slicer.

The company was subsequently handed a fine of 18,000 and ordered to pay the Vale of Glamorgan Council's 1,235.67 prosecution costs.

Director Vincent Driscoll, who also runs The Bacon Shop on Holton Road, said: "We have cleaned up our act and learnt big lessons."

He also told of the moment he received "a phone call from hell" telling him health inspectors had discovered problems at his factory.

"I was on holiday in Spain with my family and my world just fell apart," he said.

"I was let down by two staff members who left soon afterwards but as director I have to accept responsibility."

Since then, Mr Driscoll has brought in new staff and spent 10,000 on improvements.

He said: "We have brought in new machinery and new tables and floors. The walls have been reclad; there's a new ventilation system and a new hot water supply.

"We are having an independent audit by a food hygiene company who will inspect on a regular basis."

He said he had not been on holiday this year and it was "unlikely" he would take one in the near future.

Mr Driscoll, who employs seven staff at the factory and the Holton Road shop, said he had been surprised by the level of the fine but hoped it would not result in cutbacks in the business.