Hundreds queued up outside a new Wilko store this morning to be some of the first to catch a glimpse of the shop.

People started collecting in front of the branch at 7.30 this morning.

The first 50 shoppers were treated to a free food mixer, and the store's managers have promised other treats throughout the rest of today.

This is a boost to Royal Victoria Place and Tunbridge Wells, which lost its Miss Selfridge and BHS stores last weekend.

The queues stretched down the arcade past nearby shops, as people scrambled to get through the door.

Councillor David Neve and Robin Lassiter, Wilko retail director, and Ian Ayling, Wilko marketing director, led a ribbon cutting ceremony outside the branch this morning.

Other treats lined up for today include a tombola competition, with 60 prizes on offer, including a HP notebook worth £169.

Branch manager Chris Evans said: "We have been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm of the local people, it’s a very positive start to our residence here in Tunbridge Wells and we can’t wait to welcome more of the local community to the new branch."