When thinking of restaurants for a romantic Valentine's Day meal, McDonald's probably doesn't spring to mind.

But three groups of friends and couples have been McLovin' a fancy three-course meal at their local branch today.

The diners, including a married couple of more than 60 years and a pair of best friends who have lived together for 32 years, enjoyed the candlelit lunch - complete with tablecloths, plates and glasses - at the Sturry Road outlet in Canterbury.

The branch regulars were treated to a more upmarket take on the fast food giant's usual offerings, with a sharing starter of cheesy garlic bites, and a main course of Big Macs and McChicken sandwiches.

But in true McDonald's fashion, plans for dessert were scuppered following the news that the ice cream machine had broken down.

Not to be deterred though, apple pies were offered out by staff and everyone was in good spirits spending time with the ones they love most.

Among the diners was John and Mary Simpson, who have been together for 64 years having met in the 1950s while on national service together.

After moving around the country with their two sons, the couple say they are happy to have finally settled in Sturry as they mark the special day.

On their secret to a happy marriage, former psychiatric nurse Mary says: “Yesterday has gone, tomorrow may not come, so just enjoy each day as it comes.

“John’s had a stroke last year, and a heart attack 20 years ago, so there’s been so many worries that we might not make it to this point.

“Each day with each other is so special because of that, so the key really is to just enjoy it and take it as it comes."

“It also helps to let her win the arguments,” joked John, a retired postman.

Suzanne Berry is spending the day with husband of 42 years, Dave, and their eight-year-old grandson, Jack.

After being diagnosed with stage 3 ovarian cancer last year, Suzanne says she is glad to be able to spend time with her family.

Of the staff's special efforts today, she said: "It sounds a bit daft, but the crew here have been so friendly and welcoming. They always ask after you and it does make a difference when you're having a bad day. It's what it should be about.

“As for me and Dave, 42 years strong and we’re so grateful to spend time like this together.”

On a neighbouring table, the Lord Mayor of Canterbury Anne Dekker and Lord Mayor’s Consort Ken Dekker enjoyed a meal with friends Liz and Linda, who have lived together for 32 years.

The pair joking that spending that much time together has caused them to look like sisters.

The mayor praised the occasion, saying: “It’s really nice to be able to come to events like this and be a part of the community.”

McDonald's assistant manager, Lorraine Knell, said she wanted to help spread a bit of joy for some of her most loyal customers.

“It’s just for a bit of fun really," she said.

"We’ve got lots of valued regular customers and this is our way of thanking some of them.

“Whether it’s just popping in for a latte or having a bite to eat while shopping, some of our couples have been coming here for years and over that time we’ve got to know them.

“And the truth is, we consider them to be friends and are more than happy to do what we can to help them celebrate the day with people they love.”