NEW food hygiene ratings have been awarded to five places in Braintree.

The Three Tuns Inn in Wethersfield Road, Finchingfield was awarded a four-out-of-five score after assessment on November 11.

Similarly, The Lion PH in Earls Colne High Street was given the same score after assessment on November 15, the Food Standards Agency's website shows.

The Maharaja, at 18 Fairfield Road in Braintree, was handed a four-out-of-five rating after assessment on November 22 the Food Standards Agency’s website shows.

Kelvedon King, at 201 High Street in Kelvedon, was also given a score of four on November 21.

Lastly, Spa Fish & Chips in Spa Road, Witham was handed a maximum five-out-of-five score after assessment on December 20.

Of the district's 97 takeaways with ratings, 51 have ratings of five and none have zero.

Similarly, of Braintree's 133 pubs, bars and nightclubs with ratings, 88 (66 per cent) have ratings of five and none have zero ratings.