CHECKING the "Scores on the Doors" of restaurants and takeaways over Christmas and the New Year could save you from a nasty surprise this winter.

Barry town centre councillor Ian Johnson has warned people to stay alert when they go out for dinner and late night takeaways in the next few weeks.

Since November 2013, it has been compulsory for restaurants and takeaways to clearly show their food hygiene rating at the entrance to the premises.

Plaid Cymru Councillor Ian Johnson, who represents the centre of Barry, said that those on a night out should pay attention to the "Scores on the Doors".

Plaid Cymru councillor Ian Johnson said: “The new food hygiene ratings, the ‘Scores on the Doors’ are important in raising standards of food hygiene at all premises in the Vale, Cardiff and across Wales.

"Four or five are the highest scores, but it goes all the way down to zero.

“If you can’t see the score easily on the way in, then ask yourself what they are hiding, and what’s going in your food.

“The last thing you want for Christmas is a nasty bug that spoils a good night out.

“These ratings are carried out by qualified staff from the Vale Council with a great deal of experience and all food establishments should have them easily visible.”