More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
McDonald’s has a new "employee" - none other than TV star Rylan Clark-Neal.
The radio and television presenter undertook a "trainee shift" at Ashford’s McDonald’s today - helping in the kitchen, on the tills and with the restaurant’s table service.
He also did a stint taking orders from customers at the drive-thru, at the chain on Orbital Park - which is McDonald’s busiest drive through in Europe, and second busiest in the world after one in China.
WATCH: Rylan Clark-Neal on his 'trainee' shift at McDonald's
Rylan's 'shift' was set up as part of promotional work for the fast food restaurant.
As well as filming, the former X Factor and Celebrity Big Brother star posed for selfies with customers and staff.
He also chatted with fans between shooting.
Alan Stamp, who popped in at lunchtime, spoke with Rylan when he presented him with his order.
Mr Stamp, 27, who runs Ashford Theatre Society, said: "It was a bit strange. I did not expect it.
"I just went in to get lunch and saw Rylan making a McFlurry.
"He gave me my order and asked me where I worked. I told him I worked at Brownbills Opticians.
"You don't expect that in Ashford. "
Rylan's appearance at the Orbital Park eatery was kept under wraps until today - even from staff.
Anthony Trice, a customer experience leader, said: "We knew we were getting a special guest, but didn’t know who it was until he arrived in a taxi.
"He seems to really be enjoying it. Customers are loving it too.
"It is nice, but we are carrying on like a normal day."
Rylan first shot to fame after appearing on X Factor - making it through to the live shows.
He was also a finalist on TV show Signed by Katie Price.
He went on to appear in and win Celebrity Big Brother, where he befriended Ashford man and ex-England footballer Neil 'Razor' Ruddock.
Rylan even attended Razor's wedding to Leah Newman, which was held at Eastwell Manor, in Boughton Lees in 2013, acting as ring bearer.
Rylan has since presented This Morning and Big Brother's Bit on the Side and released autobiography The Life of Rylan in 2016.
He is also set to present Strictly Come Dancing: It Take's Two alongside Zoe Ball.
He hosts a show on Saturday's on BBC Radio 2.
Local franchisee Paul Crocker, who owns and operates the restaurant said of Rylan's visit: "It’s been great to have Rylan working with us at the restaurant.
"He wanted to learn more about what our crew do day-to-day and he’s definitely got the makings of a great crew member! - in fact with our flexible working, he could even fit it around his TV work if he wanted.
"The shift provided him with a real insight into how much fun it can be but how also how busy the restaurant gets during our busiest hours.
"Rylan got on really well with the staff, served customers with a smile and he even got to make a Big Mac in our kitchen.
"It was a great treat for my staff and customers - and Rylan was amazed at the speed and organisation of the team behind the UK's busiest drive thru lane.”
Footage of Rylan's experience at McDonald's is expected to be released Friday online and on social media.
More famous faces are expected to turn up at other McDonald’s throughout the summer.
