Wells has yet another accolade to add to its belt: a top-five ranking for food hygiene standards in the South West.

According to a report released by High Speed Training, Wells has secured the fifth spot in the South West region, boasting an impressive average food hygiene rating of 4.74.

The report, analysing Food Standards Agency (FSA) data, has examined the hygiene standards of over 218,000 food businesses across England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales. In the regional ranking for the South West, Wells stands tall, only surpassed by Gloucester, Poole, Bournemouth, and the leading city, Exeter. The city's position is particularly commendable given that it was evaluated against much larger cities such as Bristol and Bath.

The South West region has also seen an overall improvement in its average score, rising from 4.65 in 2022 to 4.66 this year, securing the second spot in the regional rankings. However, the city of Bath saw the most significant decline in its rating, falling by 0.25 to an average rating of 4.34, the lowest in the region. Conversely, Bristol improved its rating more than any other place in the region, increasing by 0.15.

The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS) is a partnership with local authorities in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The scheme aims to provide customers with information as to how well a business is upholding food hygiene and safety standards. Following regular inspections, ratings are devised based on the standard of food handling hygiene, the physical condition of the premises and facilities and food safety management practices. These ratings are then made available on the Food Standards Agency (FSA) website and are usually visible from outside of the premises, often presented in a window near the entrance. In Wales and Northern Ireland, it is compulsory for businesses to display their food hygiene rating. However, in England it is currently just considered best practice.

Dr Richard Anderson, Head of Learning and Development at High Speed Training, echoed Turner's sentiments, saying, "Our report shows that, on average, standards remain high across the UK, and have slightly improved from 2022. For businesses that perform well, a high rating is a real selling point. However, establishments with a low hygiene rating can be extremely off-putting for customers, which ultimately have a significant impact on reputation and profitability."