A large number of flies reported in a vacant St. George's building were being drawn there by the carcasses of dead rats, the Health Ministry reported yesterday.

The infestation in the former St. George and Dragon restaurant building is now being investigated by health officials.

"A member of the public had reported that there were flies in a vacant building located in the Towne Square," said a Ministry spokesperson.

"The Ministry said Vector Control was aware of the root cause, as they had recently worked with the building owner, Paul King, to poison rats.

"The infestation was confined to one room only where droppings were evident.

"The Ministry said that Mr. King, who has the only key to the building, was not sufficiently diligent in collecting the carcasses or present to open the building to Vector Control this week when officers requested entry to investigate and control the flies."

The spokesman advised the public to make sure they secure their premises against rats, as they often try to move into buildings at this time of year.