A dentist is getting his teeth into a new career.

Ash Rafiq has taken over the Knowsley Street and Astley Bridge McDonald’s restaurants, leaving behind his career as a dentist in East Lancashire.

The former dentist says he wanted a new challenge and enjoys working in the Bolton community.

He said: “I wanted a new challenge coupled with growth potential and a flexible work option to fit around my family life.

“I investigated franchising as I wanted to hit the ground running and it allowed me to be part of a global brand with a well-developed business model that I could contribute to on a local level. “

Ash ran dental practices in Lancashire until 2021, and now enjoys a more flexible day.

He said: “I was a dentist with a small chain of dental practices in Lancashire.

“I thoroughly enjoyed working as an NHS dentist and running my own business across several sites in East Lancashire & Preston.

The Bolton News: Ash Rafique

“After doing this for nearly 12 years, I felt it was the right time for a new challenge that excited me in a fast-paced business environment.”

With 250 employees across the restaurants, Ash is also keen to work with charities in Bolton such as the Bolton Lads and Girls Club to help support the community.

He said: “I am working in partnership with Bolton Lads & Girls Club (BLGC) as well as being in the process of developing a working relationship with Derian House Children’s Hospice.

“We are involved in fundraising for BLGC as well partnering up for a youth scheme with my restaurant which will see us providing mentoring of children and providing opportunities for work experience.

“I am a trustee for Derian House Children’s Hospice again helping to raise funds and helping to develop the profile of the hospice in Bolton.

“We are also actively raising funds for Ronald McDonalds House Charities, especially our most local Manchester House.”

Ash says the jobs are comparable in that he operated from multiple sites and employed lots of people in both businesses.