McDonald's is making three key changes to its UK restaurants from today

McDonald's is set to introduce three new changes this week to help simplify table bookings and make in-branch dining safer for customers.

The latest guidelines come amid a new six person limit on public gatherings, as the UK introduces a crackdown on rising coronavirus cases.

From Monday, September 14, social gatherings will be limited to just six, instead of the previous 30.

It means if you enter a shop or outlet with a large group, you could be separated or refused entry.

Under new rules this week, McDonald's said new front house workers will be introduced to simply table bookings and offer visitors "peace of mind".

It said walkways will also be cleared to help manage social distancing and ensure the one metre gap is adhered to.

McDonald's chief executive, Paul Pomroy said: "As we've increased the services and menu items we're offering, we have continued to prioritise enabling safe working for our people and safe visiting for our customers.

"This has meant changing some of our procedures and enhancing safety measures to continue to give you peace of mind."

The three changes that are being rolled out over restaurants are:

• Portable screens in dining areas to provide additional protection for those who choose to dine-in
• New front of house teams to support customers making use of Table Service and the My McDonald's app when visiting
• Removed chairs and free-standing furniture to increase the size of walkways.

Twenty-four McDonald's branches have also been trialling a Click, Park and Collect service, which allows customers to order via the app while parked outside their local branch.

Pomroy added: "As government guidance continues to change and develop, we will work quickly to ensure our restaurants remain safe, clean and welcoming for you and your families."

"We appreciate the feedback you've given us on the measures we've introduced, and will continue to ensure we serve the communities in which we operate safely and responsibly."