25 May 2011 Last updated at 11:18 ET

McDonald's turns away horse carriage at drive-through

Amateur video of Debbie Murden and horse at the McDonald's drive through

McDonald's has defended its decision to refuse to serve a couple in a horse and carriage at a drive-through restaurant.

The firm said it could only serve certain types of vehicles for health and safety reasons.

Debbie Murden, 42, from Pinxton in Derbyshire, said she was surprised to be turned away from the Alfreton branch as she had used it before.

McDonald's apologised for any confusion, adding that its policy would be reiterated to employees.

Ms Murden said she was allowed to use the drive-through at a nearby chicken restaurant without any problems.

'Safety a priority'

She tried to use her two-wheeled carriage at McDonald's at the weekend, just days after buying food from the same outlet in the carriage.

"They said it was dangerous," she said. "I'm not sure who they meant it was dangerous for, them or us or other people in the drive-through. But there was no danger there.

"I got in touch with McDonald's head office and asked why, if horses and motorbikes are not allowed through, are there no signs to say so? And why is it different from branch to branch?"

A McDonald's spokesperson said: "We're sorry to have disappointed Ms Debbie Murden and for any confusion caused.

"The health and safety of our customers is our top priority and for this reason we are unable to serve customers in a horse-drawn carriage.

"We will ensure this policy is reiterated to our employees so any inconsistency is avoided."