A COCKROACH-infested chicken shop has been closed down by magistrates.

Southern Fried Chicken, Billet Road, Walthamstow, was issued with an emergency hygiene prohibition order on January 23, meaning it must close down until necessary improvements are made.

It was the second fast food shop to be closed in two days as part of the council's continuing crackdown on food hygiene standards.

Cabinet member for community safety, enforcement and protection Cllr Afzal Akram said: "The vast majority of our restaurants and cafes are well run, clean and hygienic, but we will take action against those that don't meet reasonable standards."

Anyone with concerns about the standard of hygiene in the borough's food outlets is urged to contact the council's food safety team on 8496 3000.