The fast-food chain McDonald’s will create around 24,000 jobs and open more than 200 restaurants across the UK and Ireland over the next four years.

There will be £1 billion investment by the fast-food chain and by the franchisees and is the largest expansion in 20-years.

McDonald’s employs more than 170,000 people and has 1,435 restaurants across the UK.

Alistair Macrow, chief executive officer of McDonald’s UK&I, said: “We have come a long way since we first opened our doors in Woolwich 50 years ago.

“We have become an important part of communities across the UK and I’m delighted that in this milestone year we are able to demonstrate our ongoing commitment to growth, and announce the creation of new jobs across the country as we plan to open over 200 new restaurants over the next four years.

“It’s a moment to celebrate and also to look ahead to what’s next.

“Whether that’s continuing to provide the best value for our customers, investing in our restaurants, supporting our suppliers across the UK or launching new initiatives for young people where our communities need them most.”