Staff celebrate at Soham's Millbrook House retirement flats after restaurant given five-star rating

Staff have been celebrating after the restaurant at a development of retirement flats in Soham was given a five-star rating.

It came after inspectors from the Food Standards Agency made a surprise visit to the Taste restaurant at Millbrook House, in Lode Close, which is run by Sanctuary Retirement Living.

Inspectors rated the restaurant against hygienic food handling, storage, preparation and cooking, as well the cleanliness and condition of the building and facilities.

The management of food safety was rated very good, confirming that systems and checks are in place to ensure that the food sold or served is safe to eat and that standards will be maintained in the future.

The restaurant is at the centre of the retirement community for over 55s.

One resident said: “I like to have my breakfast and lunch in the restaurant and I sometimes have a sandwich to take to my flat for my tea.

“There’s always plenty of choice, the food is lovely and I use the restaurant every day.

“The staff are friendly, polite and have time for a chat.”

Karl Evans, head of hospitality, added: “This rating recognises the team’s hard work and commitment.

“We’re over the moon with receiving the five-star rating and the team should be proud of the delicious, high quality, fresh food that they serve.”

The restaurant is open to residents and members of the public from 9am to 3pm seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and snacks.

Alongside traditional favourites, the restaurant also offers special menus for all special occasions, such as Christmas and Mothering Sunday.