A LUXURY hotel and restaurant in Penarth has been given a score of just one in its latest food hygiene rating.

Following an inspection carried out by the local food safety officer, Holm House Hotel, located on Marine Parade, was given the 'one' ranking.

The report of its December 2015 inspection said "major improvement" is needed in aspects of its food hygiene standards.

Holm House, was listed as needing improvements on food safety and facility cleanliness, as well as major improvement on food handling.

The hotel, which was built in the 1920s, re-opened in 2014 under new ownership following major refurbishment work, having closed in 2012.

The business is given the opportunity to appeal the rating.

A spokesman for Holm House said: "As a hotel, we are proud of our restaurant and have robust practices in place to protect our customers’ wellbeing.

“Where operational improvements have been recommended, we have taken immediate action and are working closely with the local authority to apply for a re-rating of our score."

Food safety is now a shared regulatory service between the Vale, Bridgend and Cardiff councils in partnership with the Food Standards Agency (FSA)

The three main areas inspected included management of food safety, cleanliness and condition of facilities and buildings and hygienic food handling which includes preparation, cooking, re-heating, cooling and storage practices.