More than 50 new jobs will be created when a new dessert factory opens soon.

Rhokett is a premium developer of puds, supplying big name stores including Marks and Spencer, Waitrose, Pret a Manger, and Sainsbury’s.

Over the past 10 years, the business has grown by more than 20% a year, and now makes an annual turnover of £12m.

By opening its third factory in Hawkhurst, the company hopes to increase its revenue to more than £15m next year.

This is Rhokett’s second factory in the village, and will be situated opposite the existing 11,000sq ft facility at Hawkhurst Station Business Park.

The supplier also has a premises on Turnden Lane, Cranbrook.

This third property is 22,000sq ft and will enable the business to double capacity and increase output of its range.

HSBC provided a £900,000 loan to Rhokett to open this facility, as well as a further £600,000 to help finance the fit out of the new factory.

Peter Le Voir, chairman of Rhokett, said: “We are very excited to be opening the new factory shortly.

"Without HSBC’s support the development of this facility and our business since inception wouldn’t have been possible.

"The doubling in capacity is in response to high levels of demand for our bespoke desserts, cakes, and related products.

“We are proud of the contribution we can make, including the provision of increasing employment opportunities.”