Two fast food takeaways in Norwich have been handed a hygiene rating of zero following inspections by the food standards agency.

Eastern Daily Press: Hot Grill Kebab and Pizza shop, Norwich.Picture: ANTONY KELLYHot Grill Kebab and Pizza shop, Norwich.Picture: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2018)

Hot Grill Kebabs And Pizza on Bishop Bridge Road and Mr Pizza on Portersfield Road were both given the lowest rating after visits by inspectors last month.

The takeaways are the first in the city to be rated as a zero this year with Norwich City Council calling the failings 'disappointing'.

According to the Food Standards Agency, a score of zero means businesses need 'urgent improvement' and tend to be performing poorly in the three areas of food safety officers inspect.

A spokesperson for Norwich City Council reassured the public, stating that if premises are given a low rating, food is checked to make sure it is safe to eat.

Eastern Daily Press: Mr Pizza on Portersfield Road. Picture: DENISE BRADLEYMr Pizza on Portersfield Road. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Copyright: Archant 2018)

'It's disappointing when we encounter a failing food business,' she said. 'However, following a poor rating we work closely with the proprietor to help them improve standards which includes providing training and advice.

'We also make sure any food produced immediately after our visit is safe to eat and make regular visits to check improvements are under way.'

Both Hot Grill Kebabs And Pizza and Mr Pizza sell a variety of fast food and are available to order from on Just Eat.

And both had previously received a rating of a three which means the businesses were found to be 'generally satisfactory'.

Hot Grill Kebabs and Pizza did not want to comment on its current rating, and the owner at Mr Pizza said he had newly taken the business on, and was retraining staff in time for the next inspection.

To help eateries maintain a good level of food hygiene, Norwich City Council are introducing a new scheme which will offer extra guidance.

A spokesperson added: 'The council will be introducing an additional food hygiene advice service this year to increase the current support they offer businesses.

'This will include a food safety officer visiting the business and providing tailored advice on how to improve or maintain their food hygiene standards.'

Across Norfolk there are currently 13 businesses which hold a zero food hygiene rating.