McDonald's Apologises For Refusing Free Drinks To Firefighters

McDonald's has apologised after refusing free drinks to a crew of firefighters tackling a nearby blaze.

Firefighters were battling a large fire at a branch of B&M at York's Clifton Moor retail park, after rushing to the scene at 4.30pm on Saturday 13 October.

Firefighters asked if the fast-food restaurant could provide free drinks to those on their break, as they were not carrying cash while on call, but were refused.

Saying sorry for what had happened, McDonald's has since said that free drinks 'should have been provided' on the night to the crew.

Instead, members of the public reportedly paid for refreshments for the crew out of their own pocket, with several firefighters taking to social media to thank them.

Steve Brown, a crew manager at North Yorkshire Fire Service, wrote on Facebook: "I was one of the firefighters there last night, thank you to the lady and young man who brought us the teas and coffees, really appreciated."

Phil Lee added: "I also attended last night's fire and would like to thank the lady and the young man who brought the teas and coffees. Couldn't of come at a better time. Many thanks from all the lads."

A McDonald's spokesperson told LADbible: "We value the fantastic work of our emergency services and thank the individuals that dedicate their lives to protecting our local community.

"On this occasion, we would like to apologise to the firefighters who bravely tackled last night's fire. They should have been provided with free refreshments on the night as a small recognition for their efforts. McDonald's will of course be happy to reimburse the member of public involved and we will be in touch directly with our local fire & rescue service."

According to the Mirror, at its height there were a total of 10 fire engines at the scene. Local residents were also advised to stay indoors and close all of their windows.

BBC reporter Phil Bodmer also said that 'large bangs' could be heard from the inside of the building, and that plumes of smoke could be seen 'for miles'.

While crews remain at the scene, a spokesman for North Yorkshire Fire Service has said that the flames have been brought under control - but that firefighters were continuing to dampen down the remnants of the blaze.

An investigation into the cause of the fire will commence today.

Topics: News, UK

Jess Hardiman

Jess is a journalist at LADbible who graduated from Manchester University with a degree in Film Studies, English Language and Linguistics - indecisiveness at its finest, right there. She also works for FOODbible and its sister page Seitanists, which are both a safe haven for her to channel a love for homemade pasta, fennel and everything else in between. You can contact Jess at [email protected].

@Jess_Hardiman