A popular Burger King branch in Paddington has closed after a rat infestation was discovered by health inspectors.

Westminster City Council placed a notice on the London street branch on February 18 after finding several faults with the fast food giant's handling of food.

A Westminster City Council spokesperson told getwestlondon : “There was a significant risk of food contamination.

“Issues included a serious infestation of rats, dirty conditions, drainage defects and poor structural repair.

"The Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice will remain in place until we are satisfied that there is no longer a risk to public health.

"Westminster City Council is working with the food business operator Adil Catering Limited to address the problems that exist.”

This month (February), Burger King lost its application to serve alcohol at Paddington station after the decision was strongly opposed by Metropolitan Police , who told Westminster council’s licensing sub-committee it would increase crime around the station.

getwestlondon has approached Burger King for comment.