Customers back Kent pub over 'unfair' food hygiene fines

Locals of a Kent pub have offered to raise funds to appeal "unfair" food hygiene fines for the licensees totalling £10,670.

Tenants Fiona and Mark Harris, who also had to pay £3,000 costs, said it was unfair they were visited by environmental health before they had a chance to clear up after severe snow in February.

Fiona said the "kitchen was in a bit of a mess" after a bumper trading period when locals descended on the pub after snow hit. But there were "no serious health issues" and "no customer complaints", she said.

However, the Shepherd Neame tenants of the George and Dragon in Ightham were fined £5,335 each at Sevenoaks Magistrates.

A campaign has called Free the Ightham Two has now begun to raise money to appeal the decision.

Regular customer Robert Luke said court should have taken into account the exceptional circumstances caused by the weather.

He said the Harrises turned the pub into "one of the best in the district".

"They have supported its various groups and supplied free refreshments villagers. They have worked tirelessly to make a change, provide excellent service and be a fine host."