Tom Halsall and pal Mark Dixon, both 17, had cycled all the way from Chorley to McDonald's on Churchill Way, Leyland and decided to speed up their drinks break by going through the vehicle-only route.

However, when they got to the first window, their order was refused by a member of staff.

Mark, from Royal Avenue, Leyland, and Tom, from Euxton, demanded an explanation from McDonald's management and were told that their presence in the drive-thru on cycles, left the restaurant liable if their was an accident.

Tom said: "We had cycled all the way from Chorley, round Leyland and desperately needed a drink.
"We just decided to try our luck at the drive-thru because it was quite busy inside, but were told 'sorry, we can't serve you'.

"I wasn't best pleased and asked to see the manager. He came out and explained the reason – that if a car came round the corner and hit us they weren't insured.
"I tried to persuade him, but he didn't budge.

"I'm not pleased with the whole service and I don't think it's justified.
"Anyone doing the speed limit in the drive-thru should would have time to brake.

"Mark was annoyed because he had been doing most of the pedalling and wanted his drink.
"I use the tandem if it is a sunny day instead of wasting petrol in my car. It helps the environment – but we are rewarded by being turned away from McDonald's!"

Restaurant manager Rachel Hilliker said: "I have said to all my staff that I'd rather we didn't serve pedestrians and cyclists at the drive-thru window for their own protection.

"It's a general health and safety policy in case they are hit by cars.

"But to be honest if I'd have been working that shift, I would have probably served them, but advised them it was at their own risk.

"After 11pm, we only open the drive-thru and in my opinion is somebody wants to be served at the window they do so at their own risk. Common sense should prevail."