Two McDonald’s branches in the Dover district contribute an estimated £2.5million to the local economy, a report has revealed.

An independent economic report commissioned by the fast food chain claims that along with its suppliers, the company rakes in £3million.

The first Dover based restaurant opened in 1987 in Biggin Street, but the Whitfield business opened in the mid 1990s. Together, both branches employ around 160 people.

Dover franchisee, Sean Barber owns the two restaurants.

He said: “As someone who’s lived in the area all my life, it’s important for me to be able to provide a significant number of jobs to local people.

“I am firm a believer that you need to be part of a community to be successful in that community." - Sean Barber, franchisee.

“I am firm a believer that you need to be part of a community to be successful in that community, and I am passionate about giving young people the chance to get workplace experience.

“We have a fantastic education programme in place, meaning that all of my people from a crew member starting out in their first job, to a restaurant manager has the chance to learn while they earn.

“My ambition is to continue the great work that my teams are already doing in Dover, from daily litter patrols to supporting larger scale litter events for many more years to come.”

Michelle Trezise, 29, worked as a business manager at the Dover restaurant.

She added:“I started at McDonald’s straight after leaving school in 2001 as I was attracted to the company because it gave me the opportunity to earn while I learn.

“As such, I’ve risen up the career ladder to become a business manager – an opportunity I don’t think I could have reached without the support I’ve received along the way.

“The on-the-job training is really flexible, so you can easily fit it in around your work and personal commitments.”