Winning eaterie hit byflood

A Perth restaurant which was recently handed a national award just last week has been forced to shut due to flooding.

Nawaab’s was crowned ‘best Indian establishment’ in Scotland at the prestigious Food Awards Scotland.

But it could now be New Year before the restaurant re-opens after by burst pipes flooded the South Methven Street premises.

Owner Imran Mohammed said: “It was fantastic to be recognised by the Food Awards Scotland but it was a night of mixed emotions.

“Normally any business would be taking advantage of winning a national award but we are looking at a major internal re-fit of the restaurant.

“And while the building’s insurers expect to be approving tenders shortly, it will be a bonus if we are able to re-open for customers this side of Christmas.”

Earlier this month, Perth and Kinross Council announced local businesses had shared in a £9 million summer bonanza after the city hosted a string of crowdpulling events.

Mr Mohammed (30) added: “It is so frustrating to miss out when there has been so much on the go in Perth, which has been recognised as ‘Scotland’s Food Town of the Year.’

“Now we are in danger of missing out on the build-up to Christmas period, which is always busy.

“We are aware it is also very frustrating for our many regular customers but unfortunately the timetable is out of our control.

“The water mains in the building sprung a leak during the night and we found the entire restaurant, kitchen and back office under three inches of water when we came in.

“The place looked like a swimming pool and everything from the wooden floor to the cooking equipment has to be renewed.”