BIG Mac munchers in Swindon have been lovin’ it for a quarter of a century.

The golden arches were first sighted in Swindon 25 years ago when the Brunel Walk restaurant opened.

And yesterday, 10 million burgers later, an all-day party was held to celebrate.

Among the special activities on offer for all the family were face painting, balloon animals and a huge birthday cake.

Since Brunel Walk opened in 1983 it has been joined by further eateries at Cocklebury Roundabout, Greenbridge Retail Park and Asda West Swindon, with the latest addition launched at Orbital Retail Park in June this year. Together, the five restaurants employ more than 275 people and serve over four million customers a year.

But it’s not just Brunel Walk that is celebrating 25 years of flipping burgers.

Franchisee Paul Booth has been also been with the company since 1983.

Paul, who owns and operates the restaurants, also joined the company in 1983 and worked as managing director and director of operations in Romania, Hungary and Ireland before returning to the UK as a franchisee in 2001.

He said: “We’re very proud to be part of Swindon and to be able to contribute to the local economy and the wider community.

“We always strive to create the best experience for our customers in the area and things have changed a lot in the 25 years since McDonald’s first opened in the town.

“The restaurants are undergoing floor-to-ceiling refurbishments to give a modern, airy feel.

“The Brunel Walk restaurant was revamped in December 2007 and the Cocklebury Roundabout restaurant is set to follow suit early next year.

“Looking back at my own career, I can honestly say that I wouldn’t change a thing, as the last 25 years have been both highly enjoyable and very challenging.”

Alison Edwards, 28, from Toothill, said she had been a good customer to the store over its 25 years.

She said: “Eating at McDonald’s is part of being a kid I suppose.

“I used to eat here with my mates when I was a teenager but then as I got older I didn’t come in so much.

“Now I’ve got my own kids and I come in with them.”

Seven-year-old, Lewis said: “I really like McDonald’s, because I like the burgers and also the toys.

“I used to like Happy Meals best but now I like Chicken McNuggets.”