Fast food is all well and good when you're in a hurry. But sometimes you just want to sit back, relax and be looked after.

We're not sure how often those times coincide with a trip to McDonald's in Thornton Heath, but nevertheless: the burger giant's London Road branch is introducing table service.

From May 11, diners will be able to order meals from a self-service screen before taking up a seat at a table and awaiting staff to bring their grub.

The service is being launched following a trial at 14 other branches. 

Mark Maher, McDonald’s operations consultant, said: "I am really excited to announce the launch of table service in the London Road restaurant.

"All of the new features have been introduced so that we can meet our customers evolving needs and table service is a great example of that.

"We know that for parents for example, it can sometimes be a stressful experience ordering at the till and carrying food while keeping an eye on children, so table service enables customers to order at the self-order kiosk and then sit down at a designated zone to be served their food."

If the quandry of how much to tip waiting staff fills you with fear, worry not: table service will be optional. 

Still, these are truly heady times for Croydon folk who like to obtain food and drink without hanging around at counters.

In November, Costa opened the borough's first drive-through coffee shop.