WINCHESTER MP Mark Oaten was offered a new job behind the counter at McDonald's when he visited the fast food outlet in Winchester.

Diners had a shock last Friday when they saw Mr Oaten smiling from behind the counter.

The Liberal Democrat MP donned his apron and baseball cap and tried his hand at making burgers and fries.

Mr Oaten, who was invited to see what life was like behind the busy fast food counter, said he enjoyed his day and wouldn't rule it out as a future career.

He joked: "It's another option when I quit as MP!"

Franchisee, Tony Bennett, said he would be more than happy to give the high-profile politician a job and added: "I'd give him 10/10, he was a natural and an excellent employee."

Mr Oaten got down to work and cooked some of the products during his hour-long shift. Mr Bennett, who said he wanted the MP to see what really went on at McDonald's, said: "He made a great chicken sandwich. He really did get stuck in, he was chatting to staff and he asked a lot of questions about the ingredients.

"The staff really liked him, he really did get on with them all. One member of staff even asked him for his autograph."

Mr Bennett said he thought the day went well and added: "I invited him because I recently took over the franchise. I'm really proud of the restaurant. I think there's a lot of good news about McDonald's"

Mr Oaten, who tucked into a cheeseburger after his shift, said: "I wanted to see just what the quality of the food was like. I was very impressed. I didn't realise the beef has no additives and the nuggets are real chicken breast.

"My attitude about McDonald's has changed very quickly, I've become a big fan!"