Racist yobs target Staines McDonald's

Jan 9 2009 By Ed Saunt

Staines McDonald's

Police are investigating complaints of teenage yobs shouting racist abuse through the intercom at the McDonald's Drive Thru in Staines.

Officers have received repeated calls from the fast-food joint at Two Rivers as gangs of teenagers have been walking up to the drive-thru order point and shouting racist abuse at unsuspecting staff waiting for orders.

McDonald's has employed extra security to patrol the site and banned pedestrians from using the drive-thru, while police have pledged to patrol the area more regularly in an effort to catch the culprits.

A McDonald's spokeswoman said: "We feel that a diverse team of well-trained people is key to business success. We value this diverse team and their welfare is of primary importance to us and we are concerned that everyone feels safe and respected in the workplace.

"Managers have needed to call the police when members of staff have been harassed by customers, apparently on the basis of race and McDonald's is grateful for the assistance we have received."

Police have made no arrests in relation to the incidents but Staines Town beat bobby PC James Vernon addressed the issue on his online blog.

He said: "McDonalds at Two Rivers continues to be a source of concern for the local policing team. There have been a number of racist and abusive incidents against staff recorded there and we will be patrolling the area throughout the next few weeks.

"It continues to be an offence to swear, threaten and abuse another person and we will deal positively with anyone committing offences at the location."

Anyone who has witnessed any incidents of disorder at McDonald's should call Surrey Police on 0845 125 2222, quoting reference SL/08/8170 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.