IT MAY not be a name normally associated with civic pride.
But a McDonald's fast-food restaurant has been rewarded for its efforts to clean up Hull.
Staff at the fast-food stop in St Andrew's Quay Retail Park pick up litter, tidy the streets and even cut grass next to busy Clive Sullivan Way.
Now, The Civic Society has given the restaurant a Good Mark award in recognition of its work.
Chairman John Netherwood said: "The purpose of the awards is to give recognition to the people who have put the effort in.
"McDonald's has always looked immaculate.
"They pick up the litter on the roundabout by the restaurant and mow the grass all round the edge."
The Civic Society is launching a Pavement Pride campaign later this year encouraging city traders to keep their street clean.
And Mr Netherwood hopes others will follow McDonald's example.
He said: "We want to encourage people to look after the area in front of their shops and make it look really nice.
"People in the old days always used to swill out in the morning.
"People cared for their bit and if everybody cares for their bit the whole city looks better."
The McDonald's is operated by franchise owner George Michniewicz.
He runs 15 restaurants across East Yorkshire.
Mr Michniewicz said: "It was excellent to hear about this award. We felt very privileged.
"At McDonald's we've always had a project where we do litter patrols three times a day.
"I think it helps having a timetable where staff can go out and do their bit for the community.
"If everybody does a little bit it will become a big bit."
The owner believes tidying up is not just good for the city but also good for business.
He said: "It's about first impressions.
"We've a real commitment to being a good neighbour and a good corporate citizen.
"I know that sounds like corporate speak, but it's true."
The business's location off the A63 makes it a key point on the approach to the city.
Mr Michniewicz, who has been running his franchise since 1993, said: "This is the entrance to Hull.
"It stands out very much that we make an effort.
"It's not for outside recognition – it's something we've always done."
The St Andrew's Quay McDonald's opened in 1997, creating 40 jobs.
The Civic Society awards four or five Good Marks each year.
They are intended to promote civic architecture, restoration work and recognise the achievements of city businesses.
Recent winners include three future leaders from the Sewell Group.
Stephen Dam, Scott Pilgrim and Laura Fermandell were recognised for their contributions to young people.
They developed the Sewell Skills Academy to raise employability awareness in children.
