He may have been told to "get outta my pub" in EastEnders but actor Jake Wood was more than welcome at the opening of a revamped village store.

EastEnders and Strictly Come Dancing star Jake, who played Max Branning in the BBC soap, cut the ribbon at Meopham Costcutter's reopening on Saturday.

The shop in The Parade, Meopham, has doubled in size after extending into the old letting agency, Walker Croft, next door and has undergone a half a million pound refit.

The store now has an extensive alcohol range, a variety of vending machines including coffee to go and a slush machine, Kentish Mayde products and packed shelves of sweets, bread and fruit and veg.

The reopening saw people queuing to get in to get a first glimpse of the new look.

Store owner Peter Patel said: "We are really excited about the new store and delighted that Jake Wood was able to come and cut the ribbon at the official opening on Saturday.

"It has taken lots of hard work to get to where we are and so it was wonderful to celebrate the opening with many of our loyal customers and friends.

"It was a really successful day with lots of people popping in and enjoying the activities we have put on. We are hoping our new store format will attract new customers for us too."

As part of the celebrations the first 100 customers had the chance to win vouchers and prizes and receive a goodie bag.

There was also face painting and an opportunity to taste test some locally-sourced products including Rowcliffe’s cheeses and meats, Shicken, Kent Down Dairy Milk and Meopham wines.

Strictly semi-finalist Jake was at the shop for about an hour, chatting to customers and staff.