This calls for a Happy Meal!

Leeside’s ‘loving it’ this week the oldest McDonald’s worker in Ireland is named Cork Person of The Month for January.

Thelma Beltran, a 62 year old grandmother from the Philippines, has worked in the McDonald's in Douglas for over 25 years.

Known for her work ethic and ‘always keep smiling’ approach, Thelma is the restaurant’s customer experience leader.

She first arrived in Cork in 2001 and joined the McDonald's team in Douglas as a crew member.

In the quarter-century since, she has become a popular figure in the locality, serving countless families and becoming a familiar, welcoming face to the people of Douglas and beyond.

Despite being 62, Thelma says she loves working and has no plans to retire.

She said: “I love my job. Being part of a great team, getting to know the people of Douglas, and helping make our customers’ days that little bit special is really satisfying.

“I plan to keep working here as long as I’m enjoying it, and hopefully that’s for many more years.”

Thelma moves between the front counter and customer care roles and is highly regarded by staff and customers alike for her hard work and infectious positivity.

Describing Thelma’s impact as “incredible”, Jim Ronayne, McDonald’s Douglas franchisee, said that the team have been incredibly lucky to have her as a colleague and friend for 25 years.

Thelma's name will now go forward alongside the other monthly winners for possible selection as Cork Person of the Year at the Annual Gala Awards Lunch next January.