NEW food hygiene ratings have been awarded to seven south Essex establishments; the Food Standards Agency’s website shows.

The scheme gives businesses a rating from five to zero, with five being hygiene standards are very good, and zero being urgent improvement is required.

Here are the establishments in south Essex that have been awarded a new hygiene rating:

Southend:

Sarah's Chocolate Kitchen Ltd at 83 Rayleigh Road, Eastwood was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on March 22.

Stoked at 787 London Road, Westcliff was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on March 22.

Ugo's Cafe Bar at Ugo'S, 29 - 35 Broadway West, Leigh was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on March 22.

Hippo's at 53a Broadway, Leigh was handed a four-out-of-five rating after assessment on February 21.

Saks Sports Bar at 23 - 25 Clifftown Road, Southend was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on March 20.

Infinity Showbar, a pub, bar or nightclub at 20 Alexandra Street, Southend was handed a four-out-of-five rating after assessment on February 16.

Moonlight Bar And Restaurant, a restaurant, cafe or canteen at 13 - 17 Alexandra Street, Southend was handed a two-out-of-five rating after assessment on February 16.