MCDONALD’S Tilbury and Grays restaurants on Thurrock Park Way and Stanford Road, Orsett, have been awarded top prizes at “Toilet Oscars”.

The annual independent Loo of the Year awards recognises and rewards the best washrooms across the UK.

Franchisee Gerry Byrne and crew bagged gold awards for the quality of the restaurants’ toilet facilities, which were judged on a wide range of criteria including cleanliness and hygiene, fixtures and fittings, air quality and décor.

Since its introduction in 1987, and promoted by the British Toilet Association, the awards aim to promote the highest standards in public lavatories focusing the spotlight on ‘away from home’ toilets throughout the UK.

Loo of the Year contenders, with the owner’s or manager’s permission, can be nominated by anyone: staff, customers, visitors, managers, owners or contractors.

Following nomination, the entries are critiqued and receive a grading ranging from bronze, silver, gold and platinum following an unannounced visit from an independent Loo of the Year Awards inspector.

Gerry Byrne commented: “Staff at my Tilbury and Grays restaurants work exceptionally hard to ensure our customers enjoy a high quality service throughout their visit, and this includes having access to hygienic and safe washroom facilities. Our toilets are maintained to a very high standard for all our customers to enjoy, so it’s a great to be recognised for our ongoing hard work with this prestigious award.”