Burger giant McDonald's has stepped up efforts to scotch health-scare claims.

Over 20,000 leaflets have been distributed to homes throughout the area dismissing the rumours and thanking loyal customers.

And the fast-food chain is offering the public behind-the-scenes tours of the Keighley restaurant.

The move is in response to stories rife in the town of a hygiene horror at the Hard Ings Road outlet.

McDonald's says the rumours -- which centre around people becoming ill after eating at the site -- have affected trade.

Despite the company and council environmental health officers repeatedly quashing the claims, which began circulating this summer, some people seemingly remain unconvinced.

Last Friday the restaurant staged an open day and local MP Ann Cryer and the Keighley News were invited to look around.

Pritpal Singh, franchisee for the Keighley restaurant and others in Skipton and Halifax, said: "We have no idea how the rumours began or who started them, but they have caused upset to our staff -- who are local people -- and our regular customers.

"There is absolutely no foundation in the stories, some people even said we had been closed down. These things are hurtful.

"It appears there are still some who believe there is truth in the rumours.

"We have extremely strict health and hygiene standards at the restaurant.

"The layout of the premises is very open and customers can see what is going on in the kitchens -- we have nothing to hide.

"All new employees are given a thorough grounding in food hygiene and health and safety, and there is on-going training for every member of staff. We have a health and safety committee, which meets frequently.

"Cleanliness -- both personal and in terms of the kitchen area -- is of the utmost importance, and washing and cleaning is carried out on a regular basis.

"Our food and drink products are kept under the strictest conditions.

"Sauces, for example, are in sealed containers, so there is no chance of contamination.

"Even chilled products, when they are delivered, are checked as they come off the lorry to ensure they are at precisely the correct temperature.

"We have a tight procedure which ensures no item once cooked is kept for more than 10 minutes, or in the case of fries five minutes -- if it is not consumed within that period, it is binned.

"Any customer who has the slightest concern can contact me or the restaurant manager Paul Clarke, on 01535 667463, and we will be more than happy to talk and show you around the premises.

"Or if you prefer, speak to the local environmental health department."

The Keighley restaurant and drive-through -- which employs 55 full and part-time staff -- opened nearly two years ago.

The company also had an outlet in Cavendish Street, but that closed early this year.