WINSFORD McDonald’s restaurant has employed security guards due to ‘ongoing anti-social behaviour’.

The fast-food restaurant in Nat Lane in Wharton has confirmed that it has secured doormen security services from national company Phoenix Security.

A spokesman for McDonald’s said: “Following ongoing issues with anti-social behaviour, our Winsford restaurant has introduced security personnel in store on certain days to help tackle unacceptable behaviour.

“We take a zero-tolerance approach to disruptive individuals and will continue to work closely with the police and local community to ensure our restaurant remains welcoming and family-friendly for all of our customers.”

A 16-year-old boy from Winsford appeared in court last month and pleaded guilty to assaulting a staff member at the Nat Lane McDonald’s, by smashing an egg on their head.

He was jailed for two other offences and was given no separate penalty for the assault.

Cllr Bev Theron, Winsford Town Council member for the Wharton ward, said: “Wharton has got a bit of a problem with anti-social behaviour at the moment. It’s a very sad state of affairs when McDonald’s feel they have to hire security but to be quite honest, I don’t blame them. They have to look after their staff and their customers.

“It’s just down to a very small minority and I feel terribly sorry for the 99 per cent of people in Wharton who are honest and hard-working.”

Police have confirmed that they have issued several banning orders for anti-social behaviour at the Winsford McDonald’s.

Sgt Dan Haddock said: “In response to continued anti-social behaviour, McDonald’s has increased staffing at its Winsford store to address the issue.

“Northwich Local Police Unit is working closely with McDonald’s and if any person is identified as being involved with anti-social behaviour at the store, positive action will be taken against them.

“Numerous banning orders have been issued due to the behaviour of individuals at the location and local police will continue to support the strong stance McDonald’s are taking against ASB.”