The Advocate Arms in Market Rasen told '˜improvement necessary' by hygiene inspectors

A Michelin Guide restaurant owner given a two-star rating by food hygiene inspectors has condemned the local authority and lodged a formal complaint.
Advocate Arms EMN-161203-150845001Advocate Arms EMN-161203-150845001
Advocate Arms EMN-161203-150845001

The Advocate Arms in Market Rasen’s Queen Street has been handed a notice to improve after an inspection by West Lindsey District Council on February 16.

Owner Darren Lince is now appealing the rating, saying it was ‘disappointing’ and not representative of kitchen standards.

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Mr Lince said: “I was very disappointed to receive a two star rating from the local authority, and did not feel that this was representative of the standards in our kitchen at all, and have since appealed the decision and have made a formal complaint.

“I will re-apply for a revisit, but the authority will not do this until 13 weeks have expired since the last 
visit.

“We are extremely proud of the standards we maintain, and this has been reflected in being one of only six restaurants in Lincolnshire who have been included in the Michelin Guide 2016, and for us, this is the third consecutive year of being included in this prestigious category.”

The food hygiene rating system ranges from zero stars to five stars.

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Zero stars means ‘urgent improvement necessary’ and five stars means ‘very 
good’.

Two stars represents ‘improvement necessary’.

Describing The Advocate Arms, the Michelin Guide stated: “Former hotel close to the market square, with an original revolving door and a smart, modern interior divided by etched glass walls.

“Lunch sticks to good old pub classics and at dinner, mature local steaks are a speciality; they also serve breakfast and afternoon tea. Bedrooms are spacious and well-equipped.”

A WLDC spokesman said: “West Lindsey District Council takes hygiene and food safety seriously.

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“The National Food Hygiene Rating Scheme helps to promote high performing businesses and enables consumers to make informed choices.

“The hygiene rating shows how closely the business is meeting the requirements of food hygiene law.

“Ratings are based on how the food is handled, the condition and cleanliness of the premises, how food is kept safe and the management of the business which includes good record keeping.

“This encourages businesses to maintain the highest standards of food hygiene ensuring the best quality for residents and food hygiene officers work closely with businesses to ensure high standards.”