A former takeaway owner from Warrington has been handed a 6 month jail sentence, suspended for 12 months, after admitting a string of safety breaches at the premises.

 

Mr Shahid Aleem, the owner of the property, ignored several warnings from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service to improve safety at the property, which also housed several illegal immigrants.

 

The safety failings included issues with fire alarms, taped up smoke detectors, evidence of dangerous electrics and smoking in the property.

 

A prohibition notice was served on Mr Aleem, but on repeat visits it was discovered that two people were still living in the property and there was still fire safety issues.

 

Defending, Umar Shahzaz, said the defendant was struggling with money issues and was considering filing for bankruptcy.

 

Ian Kay, station manager of the community fire detection department, said: "This sends a strong message to the community and to other people with these types of businesses that we do not condone poor fire safety standards and a flagrant disregard for public safety."