Former Wiltshire pub operator banned from running food businesses nationwide
Court issues ban following multiple food hygiene offences
A court has prohibited Peter Martin, a former pub operator in Farley, from managing any food business due to serious food hygiene failures.
Martin admitted to 12 food hygiene offences, including 10 counts of placing unsafe food on the market, during his appearance at Salisbury Magistrates’ Court on 17th March.
The offences, posing potential risks to public health, led to a Prohibition Order that bans him from managing food businesses across the country.
Additionally, Martin was fined ÂŁ807, required to pay a ÂŁ348 surcharge, and ÂŁ1,150 in costs, totaling ÂŁ2,368.
These legal actions were taken after numerous inspections by Wiltshire Council’s Food and Safety team throughout 2024 and 2025 revealed ongoing poor hygiene practices.
Inspection findings included out-of-date and moldy food, unsafe food storage temperatures, and evidence of a rat infestation, which prompted a temporary closure of the premises.
Despite being issued a Hygiene Improvement Notice in 2025, Martin failed to comply, which led to the prosecution.
The pub is now under new management, unconnected to Martin.
Cllr Paul Sample, Wiltshire Council's Cabinet Member for Public Protection, praised the court's decision, noting it as crucial for public safety.
Sample emphasised that Wiltshire Council is committed to taking firm enforcement actions when food operators compromise hygiene standards.
Thousands of food safety inspections are carried out annually by Wiltshire Council to ensure public health and safety.
The council collaborates with the Food Standards Agency (FSA) to monitor national food safety alerts, ensuring unsafe products do not reach consumers.
Anyone suspecting food crime is encouraged to report their concerns confidentially to the Food Standards Agency through their website or by calling 0800 028 1180.