Rutland is no longer the only English county without a McDonald's.

The fast food giant opened its new restaurant and drive-thru at the junction of Hackamore Way and Lands' End Way.

As previously reported by Nub News, the venture will create 65 new jobs for the local area.

The opening at 11am this morning was carried out by franchisee Glyn Pashley and Mayor of Oakham, Coun David Romney.

It was to be carried out by PC Joe Lloyd of Oakham Police, who had been nominated by locals for the role as the restaurant had wanted a 'community hero' to carry out the task.

The restaurant posted on its Facebook page yesterday (Tuesday): "It is clear that PC Lloyd is held in very high regard in Oakham and we would like to recognise and thank him for all his hard work and dedication in keeping the people of Oakham safe.

"Unfortunately due to PC Lloyd's job role as a serving police officer he will be unable to attend the opening in person but is welcome at the restaurant anytime.

"Thank you to everyone who has contact with the page to nominate someone and thank you to all the nominees. It is clear that Oakham has a great community spirit."