The franchisee of McDonald’s two restaurants in Dover is selling up, removing his overalls for good at the end of the month.

Over the past 15 years Sean Barber, 46, has invested £750,000 in refurbishments to the fast food outlets in Biggin Street and Whitfield.

And his financial contribution has been matched by his dedication to community activities in Dover.

Mr Barber and his team have hit Dover’s streets on annual litter pick-ups, and the businessmanwas also a school governor at Priory Fields Primary School for 15 years.

Mr Barber, who has five children and lives close to Canterbury, has worked for the fast food chain since the age of 17, but now wants to take time out to pursue other projects and a different line of work.

He has sold his franchise to a man named Paul Crocker, who runs the McDonald’s branches in Canterbury and Thanet.

“I am leaving it in very capable hands,” he said.

“I have worked at McDonald’s since I was 17,” he added. “If I don’t move on now I am going to get old.”

Mr Barber reflected on his time as a franchisee and employee of the company.

He continued: “I have enjoyed my time with McDonald’s. I have been part of the local community.

“I would like to say thank you to everyone for making me feel so welcome.

“I have also had a great working relationship with the editor of the Mercury, Graham Smith.”

When Sean first took on the Biggin Street restaurant, he employed 25 members of staff.

Now, with the drive-thru at Whitfield, the number of workers has increased to 150.

He continued: “I can see how I have built up the business. I will miss the 16-year-olds coming to me from school, growing, doing their A-levels, going to university.

“I have had a paternal take. They started work and now they come in with their kids.”