‪WREXHAM'S MP has been slammed for promoting fast food chain McDonald's in the same week she urged her constituents to support local businesses.

Last night, Sarah Atherton shared a photo of herself with a Big Mac to promote the opening of the Regent Street outlet in Wrexham today.

On her social media platform's the Wrexham MP said: "Tomorrow, McDonalds on Regent Street in Wrexham will reopen for walk-in takeaway, with new measures in place to help keep employees and customers safe! ‬

‪"Remember to follow social distancing guidance and stay alert."

The posts come in the same week the Welsh Conservative MP urged people to support local businesses as non-essential retailers in Wales were allowed to open from this week.

She said: “Wrexham has a variety of shops that need your support. From clothes, to DIY products and everything in between. Everything we need can be found on our doorstep.

“Small businesses are at the heart of our communities.

"Let’s do all that we can do to support local businesses and to awaken our high street from its long slumber.”

But many social media users say promoting a chain like McDonald's is not supporting local business, and they have made their feelings known on the MP's Facebook and Twitter pages.

Nicola Marie Bendall said: "How weird. Why not promote a local business instead of a large multi billion pound corporate chain that plays a major part in obesity? As an "ex nurse" as well."

Tracey Scourfield said: "Seriously? You didn't think for ONE MINUTE that this might not be a good idea? How many local business could you have gone into and lent your support to? How about going with a bit of public opinion now n again?"

Hayley Wilson said: "Well you learn something new everyday. I always thought McDonald's was a large multinational company based in the USA but no its apparently a local Wrexham business who knew?"

Gareth E. Maybury said: "I live in Clwyd South, but due to the fact our entire lively hood in this area depends on Wrexham Town I think I can say this.

"You're incompetent, didn't care about social distancing, and are more arsed than a photo op than actual work.

"The Wrexham Town centre is struggling as all hell. If you want a burger, pose with one from a local buisness."

Geraint Rogers said: "What about local businesses in your constituency that desperately need the money rather than a multi national and multi billionaire company. Get out of our town you photo opportunistic fraud."

The Fat Boar in Wrexham tweeted that other outlets selling burgers were available.

McDonalds restaurants are usually run on a franchise basis, with local business people running one or more outlets. The branch in Regent Street has been praised for being part of the community by Neighbourhood Policing Team as Cuppa with a Copper sessions were held there prior to lockdown.

Ms Atherton has been approached for further comment.