The Big Mac has returned to Macclesfield today as McDonald's reopens its drive-thru after ceasing trade as the lockdown came into effect in March.

While the local branch, based at the Silk Retail Park, is busy this lunchtime with long queues, it does not appear to be causing major traffic disruption on Hulley Road; something that has occurred in other areas of the country as stores reopen.

When Nub News went to the fast-food restaurant around midday, staff members were directing the traffic into queues, having claimed some additional car park space to aid their efforts.

Despite the potentially long wait, those in the queue appeared content to wait for their fast food fix after more than 10 weeks.

When they eventually get to make their orders, customers will be offered a reduced menu, as well as some other changes to manage risks presented by Covid-19.

Other safety measures which have been put in place include:

- Capped spend in drive thrus at £25 per car and customers are encouraged to pay by contactless payment methods wherever possible.

- Perspex screens at drive thru windows and employees wearing protective equipment, as well as Perspex screens and floor markings in specific areas in the restaurant and kitchen.

- All McDonald's employees will be asked to confirm they are fit and able to work, and the company will use contactless thermometers with temperatures taken on arrival at work for every shift.

- Social distancing has been introduced in the kitchens and service areas to help create a safe working environment for restaurant teams.

Announcing the reopening's last week, a spokesperson for the chain said: "We will continue to work with local authorities and the police as we extend our reopening plans. With smaller teams, we will still be offering a limited menu over reduced hours, and we ask that you make contactless payments and limit your spend to £25.

"We are continuing to review these measures as we reopen, but for now, these restrictions remain in place to help our employees, customers and delivery partner couriers to remain safe."