Bosses at a London branch of McDonald's have been forced to apologise after a sign was put up attempting to ban teenagers from entering the premises during the evening.

A misspelt sign was put up on the doors of the restaurant in Sidcup that read: "no youths will be serverd [sic] after 7pm". It has since been taken down.

The move to ban teenagers came after a group of young people caused "sustained disruption" on Saturday night, a McDonald's spokesperson said.

Download the new Independent Premium app Sharing the full story, not just the headlines

The ban, imposed by local managers, led to dozens of angered young people pouring through the doors of the branch shortly before 7pm on Monday, the London Evening Standard reported. One customer told the paper: “I couldn’t help but laugh because it was full of youths at 6.50pm.”

A McDonald’s spokeswoman said: “I can confirm that there is no age restriction policy in place at the McDonald’s restaurant on Sidcup High Street.

“On Saturday evening, the restaurant experienced problems with a group of individuals causing sustained disruption to the restaurant, affecting fellow customers and employees.

“As a result the restaurant management took urgent steps to try and prevent repeat anti-social behaviour.

“The wording of the initial signage displayed in the restaurant was incorrect and we apologise for any confusion caused. McDonald’s is a family-friendly restaurant that welcomes everyone through its doors.”

A police spokesperson confirmed they were called to reports of anti-social behaviour at the branch on Saturday.