A PUB and restaurant that was given a hygiene rating of zero by inspectors has closed down.

But Enterprise Inns says it aims to have Harry's Carvery at Whitehall Road, Wyke, back open "as soon as possible."

At the beginning of August, the Telegraph & Argus reported that Harry's Carvery was among 18 food businesses in the Bradford area to have a zero mark under the food hygiene rating scheme run by the Food Standards Agency in partnership with local authorities.

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Now it has emerged that the pub has closed down and operator Enterprise Inns is currently searching for someone to take it on.

Ward councillor Kath Pinnock (Lib Dem, Cleckheaton) said the pub had changed hands a number of times in the last decade but had perhaps lost out on passing trade to a pub and restaurant nearer Chain Bar which opened a couple of years ago.

"I think that particular premises has been struggling for a number of years. It has changed hands three or four times in the last ten years - and that tells you enough. Their trade has just been squeezed, particularly since the Silver Birch pub opened nearer the motorway.

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"It's a shame really and I hope somebody is able to make something of it soon."

Back in August when contacted by the Telegraph & Argus about the hygiene rating of zero, chef Mark Hughes said it was simply a result of a hole in some flooring in the kitchen, which had since been rectified. The inspection dated back to February, but that rating stays until the next inspection, even if improvements have already been made.

Mr Hughes added: “We have been here for five years now and it is the first time we have had an issue. We anticipate on our re-inspection we will easily go back to four or five stars.”

The pub is described by Enterprise Inn as a large open plan village pub located on the A58 - ideal for passing trade and capable of accommodating a minimum of 80 covers, with the potential for more. It has a cosy and traditional feel and they are looking for someone to develop the carvery and food offering.

A spokesperson from Enterprise Inns said: “Unfortunately our venue Harry’s Carvery is currently closed while we search for a new operator to take it on to trade. We would like to reassure members of the local community that we aim to have this popular pub back open and trading as soon as possible."