NEW food hygiene ratings have been awarded to nine Southend 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.

READ MORE >> Old Leigh Artists' Market to return with painters, sculptures and live demonstrations

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

Southend:

The Woofer Café at 157 Woodgrange Drive, Southend was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on April 12.

Toasteas at 99 West Road, Shoebury was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on April 6.

Glasshouse Cafe at Warrior Square Gardens Kiosk, Warrior Square, Southend was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on April 5.

Pizza Express at 11 London Road, Southend was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on April 5.

Utopia Coffee at Utopia, 2 The Royals, High Street, Southend was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on April 4.

Chicken Spot at 211 London Road, Westcliff was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on April 3.

Costa Coffee at 183 High Street, Southend was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on April 3.

Old Walnut Tree at The Old Walnut Tree, Southchurch Boulevard, Southend was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on April 6.

Curry Pot at 324 Bridgwater Drive, Westcliff was handed a five-out-of-five rating after assessment on April 11.