CLEVELAND (AP) - The man who famously put down his Big Mac to help rescue three women held captive for a decade in an Ohio house will never have to pay for another burger in his hometown.

Mr Charles Ramsey has been promised free burgers for life at more than a dozen Cleveland-area restaurants.

The (Cleveland) Plain Dealer reports that the restaurant where Mr Ramsey worked as a dishwasher initially created a special burger in his honour, but eateries in the city decided a larger tribute was due.

Mr Ramsey was called a hero after helping Ms Amanda Berry, Ms Gina DeJesus and Ms Michelle Knight break out of the house May 6. Ariel Castro is now facing charges.

The newspaper says Mr Ramsey was travelling and would get his "Chuck Card" when he returns.