Hotelier admits 13 hygiene offences

The hotelier who hosted BNP conferences in Blackpool has been handed a suspended prison sentence after admitting 13 food hygiene charges. Peter Metcalf, owner of the New Kimberley Hotel on New South Promemade, was appearing at Preston Crown Court after environmental health officers raided his premises in October 2008.

Following the initial inspection, the 48-year-old was served a number of orders to ensure the property was clean and structurally sound. But when officers returned early last year they found the kitchen equipment and food preparation areas were caked with mould and grime. Food was stored dangerously and could have become contaminated by bacteria while there was no evidence of any systems to prevent the spread of germs.

He was given a 12 week prison sentence suspended for 18 months.

Coun Maxine Callow, cabinet member with responsibility for quality standards at Blackpool Council, said: "There's no place for people who continually flout the law and put the health of our visitors in danger. I'm pleased the sentence imposed reflects how seriously the courts take instances where public health is put at risk. We give people every chance to change their behaviour and improve the quality of their businesses but if it doesn't happen we will ensure the strongest action possible is taken."

Metcalf appeared before a crown court judge in July where he pleaded guilty to 13 food hygiene charges. He was found guilty of 20 food hygiene offences in 2008 while South Shore Travel Limited, also involved with the running of the hotel, were prosecuted for failing to comply with seven health and safety improvement notices last year.

Blackpool Council revoked the hotel's licence in August 2009 due to 'significant and long standing fire and health and safety concerns'.

Blackpool Gazette