AN INFESTATION of cockroaches was uncovered at a Hampshire restaurant, it has been revealed.

Environmental health chiefs launched an investigation after the insects were discovered at the Royal Bengal restaurant in Hamble.

Following the probe the owners were prosecuted and have fined thousands of pounds by magistrates.

Eastleigh Borough Council revealed that an “extensive cockroach infestation” was discovered during a routine food hygiene inspection at that restaurant in Coronation Parade.

As a result the owner of the restaurant appeared before Southampton Magistrates Court where he received fines and costs in excess of £7,000.

The prosecution was brought against Ashfaqunoor Chowdhury following the investigation by officers from Eastleigh’s environmental health team in October 2015.

At court Chowdhury pleaded guilty to eight charges that related to a severe cockroach infestation and food hygiene offences.

The court imposed fines and charges of £1,280 together with a victim surcharge against Mr Chowdhury and also awarded the council costs of £5,800.

After the hearing Councillor Anne Winstanley, Eastleigh council’s cabinet member with responsibility for Housing and Environmental Health, said: “We are pleased that the court recognised the seriousness of these offences and that this was reflected in the fines and costs handed out to Mr Chowdhury.

She added: “It is a tribute to the council team’s professionalism and dedication to protecting public health that this case has been brought to a successful conclusion.”

A statement from the council said the Royal Bengal is now under new ownership who have carried out improvements to the restaurant.