There's only two weeks to go until Hythe's brand new Aldi store opens - and Olympian James Foad has been invited to cut the ribbon.

Last month, KentOnline exclusively revealed the long-awaited supermarket, being built on the out of town Kengate Industrial Estate, will open its doors for the first time on Thursday, September 26.

But now more details about the opening have been revealed by bosses behind the German chain.

This includes the announcement that rower James Foad, an Olympic bronze medallist, will attend opening day and cut the ribbon at 8am.

The first 30 customers through the door will also receive a complimentary bag of fresh fruit and vegetables.

Mr Foad, who competed in the 2012 games, said: "I'm so excited to be opening Aldi’s new store, it will be great to chat to customers and a lovely way for me to thank Aldi for its endless support of Team GB."

Aldi decided to relocate from its smaller High Street store to provide a larger range of stock and boost profits.

Products on offer at the new 1,254 sqm shop will include fruit, vegetables, chilled and frozen food, a ‘Food to Go’ section, beers, wines, spirits, Specialbuys and health and beauty products.

It is expected to employ 50 staff, the majority moving from the existing supermarket, and provide 75 parking spaces.

Store manager, Callum Morrison said: "We can't wait to open the doors to the new store on Dymchurch Road.

"It's set to be a special day and having Olympic Rowing hero, James Foad, join us will make it a morning to remember."

Work on the multi-million pound project has been delayed several times.

The demolition of former industrial units at the site, home to a laundry, garages and other small businesses, was delayed after harmful substances were found, pushing the project back.

'It's set to be a special day and having Olympic rowing hero James Foad join us will make it a morning to remember...' - store manager Callum Morrison

The new store's opening times will be 8am to 10pm Monday to Saturday, and 10am to 4pm on Sunday.

Charities and food banks in the Hythe area are invited to register with Neighbourly, a community engagement platform which links businesses to charitable organisations in their community.

Those involved will receive regular donations of surplus food from the supermarket.

Anyone interested should email aldi@neighbourly.com.

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