Ritchie Top Man

I Love My McJob!

Here’s Ritchie Taylor. He’s possibly the most cheerful man in Leigh – with a bigger smile than Ronald McDonald and a positive attitude that his bosses are rightly proud of.

Ritchie works at the Bradshawgate branch of the burger chain – and has done so for 15 years. And this month, he won a clutch of awards from Wigan Council for his commitment and dedication.

“He’s a real superstar,” says Kerry Claxton. Kerry is an Employment Engagement Officer and keeps a friendly eye on Ritchie – and many others – who are in supported employment across the borough. Her team have just celebrated another successful year as the council’s employment and training provider for people with disabilities.

“I love working here,” Ritchie says, “It’s great to be part of the crew and to know I can do something good for my bosses and the customers.” He has also worked at the nearby Asda branch of the restaurant, making Ritchie a familiar and popular face across Leigh.

This week, the council’s champion for customer services, Cllr Chris Ready, called into see Ritchie and congratulate him on 15 years’ service under supported employment. Cllr Ready says: “Ritchie is the man who brings great service with a smile. I’ve visited many people in supported employment across the borough and they are all a credit, but when the chips are down, Ritchie’s enthusiasm is hard to beat.”

Franchise owner Laurence Hilliker is delighted with Ritchie’s progress over the years. He says: “With excellent support from the council, Ritchie has become a real asset to my team. He has progressed through the training programme and is giving his best – I’m really proud of him.”

As well as his two awards from Wigan Council, Ritchie today received £350 Argos vouches from McDonalds for his 15 years’ service with them.

Earlier this month, Cllr Ready was joined by council Chief Executive Joyce Redfearn to present awards to members of the supported employment staff, employees and business leaders. The ceremony, at Ince Town Hall, honoured the dedication of those who have been in post for 5, 10 and 15 years.