Walsall Council Environmental Health Officers made an unannounced visit to Beacon Farm to undertake a routine food hygiene inspection

The owner of a popular farm shop and his colleague have been sentenced after inspectors found a “severe infestation” of mice during a visit.

Walsall Council Environmental Health Officers made an unannounced visit to Beacon Farm, off Pinfold Lane, for a routine food hygiene inspection on October 24, 2023.

They observed mouse droppings throughout the premises on floors and shelving in food preparation areas, the walk-in chiller and boxes.

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The owner, Peter Lilwall, was served with a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice.

Officers returned the next day with a pest control company and observed mice caught on glue boards, showing a severe infestation at the premises.

Following close collaboration with Environmental Health and a pest control contractor, the business was allowed to re-open on 30 October 2023.

On 19 February 2025, the case was heard at Dudley Magistrates’ Court. Both defendants attended court and pleaded guilty to all the offences.

It was found that Mr Lilwall failed to implement adequate pest control procedures and the layout, design, construction, siting, and size of the premises were also found to be unsuitable for maintaining good food hygiene, particularly for pest control.

Joseph Kinder of Weyhill Close, Pendeford, Wolverhampton, failed to keep the food premises clean and maintained in good repair and condition.

Mr Lilwall received a conditional discharge for 12 months and was asked to pay local authority costs of £500 and a victim surcharge of £26.

Mr Kinder also received a conditional discharge for 12 months. He was asked to pay local authority costs of £250 and a victim surcharge of £26.

Councillor Garry Perry, Leader of Walsall Council said, “This business had failed to meet industry safety standards, putting the public at serious risk of food poisoning.

“Our teams have successfully prosecuted this case and the defendants involved, and I commend them for their hard work to maintaining high standards and protecting our community.

“Our teams continue to work with the business to make the necessary improvements and work towards compliance.

“While we want Walsall businesses to succeed, we will take appropriate action if food safety standards are compromised.”