One of Kent’s last Wimpy restaurants is on track to reopen by the end of the year, bosses have confirmed.

Despite originally expecting to be back at the beginning of 2024, Ashford’s branch of the burger chain remains vacant.

The diner in Tufton Street shut in late 2023 when the previous franchisee stepped down after 30 years in charge.

Despite the new manager expecting to reopen earlier this year, their efforts have been delayed but customers have been assured the company will be back.

A spokesperson for the brand said: “Wimpy is delighted to say that Wimpy Ashford is on track to reopen towards the end of the year.

“As soon as we are able to announce a firm date, we can assure our many fans in the town that they will be among the first to know.”

Ashford residents previously told of their excitement to have the burger chain back.

Tina Black told KentOnline earlier this year: “It’s a popular place so it should be open – I’m surprised it’s taking such a long time to do so.”

The chain, the first to serve hamburgers in the UK, was once the fast-food restaurant of choice among many in the country.

But Ashford’s branch is now one of only six left in Kent, with Maidstone, Strood, Sittingbourne, Tonbridge and Dartford the only other towns still home to a restaurant.

Wimpy was founded in Indiana, USA, in 1934, but did not arrive in the UK until 1954 when the first Wimpy Bar opened at Lyon’s Corner House in London.