A new fine-dining restaurant offering lobster and duck on the menu has received a one-star food hygiene rating.

Sky Restaurant in Bank Street, Ashford, only opened at the end of August but has been told "major improvement" is necessary.

During an inspection on September 15, an environmental health officer from Ashford Borough Council found bosses failed to meet food hygiene standards expected by law, with 10 matters that needed addressing.

They found no food safety management system was in place and raw meat was being stored above an open ice freezer.

Chopping boards were stacked together on the floor, a tray of cooking utensils was stored in a washing up tray on the floor and the kitchen had damaged wall tiles.

The inspection report said: "It became clear you have not done enough to show how you identify, control and monitor all steps and activities of your food business that are needed to make certain food is safe."

It also found hand washing areas cluttered with equipment when they should be kept tidy at all times.

The conclusion was a one-star rating, just one above the lowest possible rating of zero stars for venues where urgent improvements have to be made.

However, during a re-inspection two weeks later, a number of 'good improvements' had been noted.

The food safety management system is now operational, all the structural issues have been addressed and practices to prevent cross contamination are in place.

Staff have also provided evidence of 'level two' food safety training for all staff who handle high-risk food.

Sky Restaurant has been approached for comment.

It opened on August 31 in a prime corner spot that was previously RJ's American Diner.

Its website says it was set up as "a passion project to serve quality food in a beautifully chic environment".

"Whether you are dining with friends, family or colleagues, Sky offers an exciting menu of British cuisine, bottomless brunch, afternoon tea and traditional Sunday roasts," it adds.

Read more: All the latest news from Ashford