FANS of a popular kebab van near Oxford station can now enjoy their late-night treat safe in the knowledge the takeaway has reversed its poor food hygiene rating.

A report from August 1 had said health inspectors from Oxford City Council were left with ‘no choice’ but to award Botley Kebab one star, the second lowest rating possible - meaning ‘major improvement necessary’ - after finding the takeaway had ignored advice about legally required checks.

This score has now been revised following a fresh visit by the authority's hygiene team last month.

Read our original story - Oxford kebab van hammered by health inspectors

The Botley Road business has gained a five-star rating - the highest score possible and which means standards are judged to be 'very good'.

In the three categories that make up the overall score, food and hygiene was found to be 'good', as was confidence in management.

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Structural compliance - the cleanliness and general state of facilities was marked as 'very good'.

Since 2016 the business had maintained at least a four-star rating but this changed last summer when inspectors uncovered a range of issues.

Oxford Mail:

These included the temperature sauces were being stored at overnight and tong handles being left in food, as well the lack of an SFBB (Safer Food, Better Business).

The document helps small businesses with food safety management procedures and food hygiene regulations, providing guidance on cross contamination, cleaning, chilling and cooking, as well as containing a daily diary to ensure standards are maintained.

More recent food hygiene ratings from across Oxfordshire

At the time, the report stated: “Despite being informed on the last inspection the SFBB were still not in the van. The daily checks had not been recorded since April. These must be completed daily.”

Despite its recent troubles the takeaway, which is based on the junction with Cripley Road, has been a hit with customers during its more than two decades operating.

Oxford Mail Features Editor Tim Hughes said he 'reasonably recommended' the van when reviewing the business in 2016.

Read the full review

He wrote of a lamb doner: "The meat was juicy without being greasy, and looked to be of relatively good quality.

"It had bite and was the right colour (which is not always the case at such establishments).

"The serving, despite being the smallest on offer, was huge and very satisfying, and was nicely washed down with a glass of rich Malbec back at the ranch."

Botley Kebab was contacted but did not respond before the paper went to print.