The county of Oxfordshire is home to many eateries serving international dishes and impressive tastes, yet hygiene standards at some venues have raised serious concerns.

Four venues currently hold the lowest cleanliness ratings in the county following recent regulatory assessments.

Red Star Chinese on Cowley Road was required to cease operations in February when environmental health officers found evidence of rodent activity during their investigation.

Inspectors also came across unsealed and spoiled seasonings in a storage section, with household cleaning products discovered alongside edible goods, leading to officials issuing a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Order.

Exprizza and Desi Grill on Cowley Road also received a one-star rating after an evaluation took place in February.

The business owner expressed surprise once health officers concluded that immediate improvements to food safety procedures were essential.

Peppers Burger on Walton Street in Jericho, popular among local residents, was similarly ordered to close by the council in March following the discovery of a dead rodent and extensive soiling during the inspection.

Ryan Cobb, the senior food safety official at Oxford City Council, determined that the burger outlet posed an immediate threat to public health based on conditions observed during the visit.

Love Deserts in Bicester obtained a one-star food rating after a regulatory assessment in January.

The company, which operates another branch in Abingdon, was told that immediate action was necessary at this particular site.