INFESTATIONS of cockroaches and filthy work surfaces were among failings found at two restaurants closed down by environmental health officers.

Kebabish, in High Street, Walthamstow, was forced to close on March 5 after inspectors found a colony of the insects living in the motor of a display chiller.

However, it reopened on March 6 after hygiene issues were adequately addressed.

Cafe Cirta, in High Road, Leyton was closed on February 17 for similar reasons.

Inspectors found the infestation of cockroaches to be so severe that they took video evidence.

The restaurant remains closed while refurbishment work takes place.

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.

“If residents have any concerns about the standard of hygiene in the borough's food premises they should contact our food safety team on 020 8496 3000."

You can view the video taken by environmental health officers at Cafe Cirta by clicking here.

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