McDonald’s has launched the first ever vegetarian Happy Meal, along with a new Spicy Veggie Wrap on the main menu.

The fast food chain say the two new additions are in response to the growing customer trend for more meat-free meal choices.

A third of McDonald’s customers think it’s important that they start including more meat-free meals into their families’ diet.

People will be able to buy the products at the chain's branches in Carlisle, Workington, Whitehaven and Penrith.

Working with the Britmums network and Vegetarian Society, McDonald’s invited parents and their children to select the final flavour. The discerning tasters selected the delicious Red Pesto Goujon wraps, which have been accredited by the Vegetarian Society. The ingredients are all also dairy free.

Lynne Elliot, Chief Executive the Vegetarian Society said: “We’re really proud to have worked closely with McDonald’s for over 10 years and it’s great to see their veggie menu developing, especially as McDonalds tell us a third of their customers think it’s important to eat more veggie meals.

"There’s a growing demand for veggie food everywhere and it’s fantastic to see McDonald’s meeting the needs of their customers. It is especially important for young veggies to be able to choose something to eat when they are out with their friends."

Duncan Cruttenden, menu director at McDonald’s UK&I said: “Our commitment is to offer great food, great choice and a great experience to our customers and we are constantly asking them how we can evolve and improve.

"We are really thrilled to be able to give our customers this new choice."