The re-opening of the McDonald's drive-thru restaurant in Newtown proved hundreds of people were desperate for a Big Mac.

Queues of cars were seen being directed by staff who were wearing face coverings as part of special measure to keep them and customers safe.

The fast-food giant closed all of its outlets more than 10 weeks ago as lockdown restrictions came into force.

County Times:

Bins in a nearby car park were full to the brim with rubbish hours after opening for the first time in almost three months.

McDonald's had warned that things could take a little longer and that high demand was anticipated.

The company said that they may have to close drive-thru lanes if queues cause disruption at busier sites or put employees or customers at risk.

Located near one of Newtown's busiest roads, cars were seen at times overflowing into Cambrian Way.

Special measures have been put in place to keep customers and staff safe such as Perspex screens, gloves and social distancing.

The new system included four lanes of four vehicles waiting in the car park before a member of staff directed them to the drive-thru.

Customers are also being encouraged to pay by contactless payment, and spend a maximum of £25 per order. The fast food chain is offering a limited menu and operating reduced hours.

Police officers in Aberystwyth said they had conducted patrols near a McDonald's drive-thru restaurant on the outskirts of the town where diversions had been put in place.

McDonald's said it was aiming to reopen 1,000 of its drive-thru or delivery outlets by Thursday.