NEW food hygiene ratings have been awarded to nine 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:

The Bellhouse, a pub, bar, or nightclub at The Bellhouse Public House, 321 Rayleigh Road, Eastwood was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on May 15.

The Union, a restaurant, cafe or canteen at University of Essex, 10 Elmer Approach, Southend-On-Sea, Essex was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on May 14.

Basildon:

Costa Coffee at J Sainsbury Plc, Cricketers Way, Basildon was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on May 3.

Fish 'n' Chick'n / Serial Griller at 167a Southend Road, Wickford was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on May 14.

Yo! To Go! at Tesco Stores Ltd, Mandeville Way, Laindon was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on May 13.

Matteus Caribbean Cuisine at Market Site Kiosk 45, St Martins Square, Basildon was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on May 9.

Wingo / Queen's Pizza & Kebab at 7 Northlands Pavement, Pitsea was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on May 9.

Zaika Indian Takeaway/ Tiffin Bites Cafe/ Tiffinwala at 7 Chalvedon Square, Pitsea was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on May 9.

Kings Fish Bar at 146 Clay Hill Road, Basildon was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on April 19.