New figures from the Food Standards Agency have revealed Swindon is 11th out of 12 major towns and cities in the region when it comes to hygiene scores.

But the average is still 4.26 out of a possible five for the 491 shops, takeaways and restaurants checked in the town.

Top for the south west is Wells with and average of 4.72, followed by Gloucester at 4.69.

Nationally, Swindon is 46th out of 68 places around the UK.

When premises are checked, they are inspected for cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen and for paperwork.

A low score may not necessarily mean poor hygiene, although the full reports are available at ratings.food.gov.uk.

A zero rating means 'urgent improvement is needed. One means 'major improvement needed, two is 'some improvement, three is 'satisfactory, four is 'good' and five 'very good.