A RESTAURANT over-run with vermin has been closed.

Magistrates ordered immediate action against Mauritian Delights in Lea Bridge Road, Walthamstow, after evidence of a mice and cockroach infestations were found, along with droppings on work surfaces and shelves.

Environmental health officers also believe a rat had gnawed through the handle of a broom during a visit on November 25.

Standards of cleaning at the restaurant were described as very poor.

Cllr Afzal Akram, cabinet member for community safety, said: “Restaurant owners need to know that we don’t tolerate poor standards of hygeine.

“Failing to obey even the most rudimentary hygeine controls means this premises will be shut in the run up to Christmas and means that it will miss out on a fair amount of trade during this period.

“It makes financial sense to keep your premises clean and free from vermin because we will close you down if we find you flouting food safety laws.”