Fortune Inn, Spennymoor, gets five food hygiene rating

The Fortune Inn, in Middlestone Moor, near Spennymoor, was told major improvement was necessary in February following a damning hygiene inspection. 

Rodent droppings, unsafely thawed chicken and mouldy fridge seals were among the issues found at the site, known for its “delicious” food and all-you-can-eat deal.

But yesterday (Thursday, June 4), Durham Council confirmed that the venue has been graded a five hygiene rating following a reinspection. 

Bosses admitted it had experienced a “huge downturn” following the inspection but decided to “face all shortcomings bravely and start over from the very beginning”. 

A spokesperson said: “Throughout the hardest days, every member of our staff stayed dedicated, patient, and responsible. 

“Our whole team worked tirelessly to improve every detail of our service, food quality, hygiene standards, and daily operation.”

Since its closure, the venue has been revamped, bringing a “clean and comfortable dining space for every guest”. 

They said it was a “brand new start”: “We will treat every customer wholeheartedly, sincerely, and respectfully. 

“We will keep strictly improving our food quality, dining environment and service standards, to repay every customer’s trust.

“We are deeply grateful for every staff member’s hard work, perseverance, and companionship through the difficult times.

“We will continue to deliver reliable, high-quality dining experiences to our community.” 

The venue - formerly the Masons Arms pub - has now been ranked 'very good' in its hygienic food handling and the management of food safety, which looks at systems in place to ensure food sold is safe to eat and staff food safety knowledge.

It has been ranked 'good' in its cleanliness and the condition of the facilities and building.