WITH plenty of fantastic places to eat in and around Colchester, we all like to know which ones have scored high hygiene ratings.

Premises across the borough are rated by the Food Standards Agency, based on the findings of local authority inspectors, who work all year round.

The hygiene standards found at the time of inspection are then rated on a scale.

Five is top of the scale, meaning the hygiene standards are very good and fully comply with the law.

Zero is at the bottom of the scale, meaning urgent improvement is necessary.

Here are eight restaurants and cafés who all scored the highest rating of five in recent weeks.

Perrywood Garden Centre and Nurseries

Food Hygiene and Safety: Very Good

Structural Compliance: Very Good

Confidence in Management: Good

Date of award: October 1

Twisted Treats, West Mersea

Food Hygiene and Safety: Very Good

Structural Compliance: Good

Confidence in Management: High

Date of award: September 30

The Anchor, Tiptree

Food Hygiene and Safety: Good

Structural Compliance: Good

Confidence in Management: Good

Date of award: September 25

MB Cafe, Debenhams, Colchester

Food Hygiene and Safety: Good

Structural Compliance: Good

Confidence in Management: Good

Date of award: September 24

The Flag Burger, Wivenhoe

Food Hygiene and Safety: Good

Structural Compliance: Good

Confidence in Management: High

Date of award: September 23

Masala Delight, Colchester

Food Hygiene and Safety: Good

Structural Compliance: Good

Confidence in Management: Good

Date of award: September 23

Choccy Heaven, Colchester

Food Hygiene and Safety: Good

Structural Compliance: Good

Confidence in Management: Good

Date of award: September 21

The Passage House, Colchester

Food Hygiene and Safety: Good

Structural Compliance: Good

Confidence in Management: Good

Date of award: September 18