Customers queued outside Dame Kelly Holmes' new cafe before it officially opened to the public in a bid to be first through the doors.

Her new Hildenborough cafe opened last Friday and has taken off over the weekend.

She personally greeted the first excited customers and welcomed them into her new shop, Cafe 1809.

The site, in Tonbridge Road, has been packed every day since opening with people of all ages stopping by to grab a quick drink or sit and chat to friends and family.

The 44-year-old has been at the centre of development and involved in every stage of getting the project up and running.

There are counters selling a wide variety of Kent produce including honey and salad dressings.

The back of the shop hosts a brightly lit seating area and the rear garden accommodates racks for more than 30 bikes.

The former Olympian said: "It’s been really manic since we’ve opened, people seem to have heard about it through word of mouth which is exactly what we want.”

“We’re now open permanently so people of all ages can come and enjoy our lovely atmosphere whenever they want.”

For more info visit: http://www.cafe1809.co.uk/