A new high-end food store opened its doors to customers in Aylesford this morning.

The new Marks & Spencer on the South Aylesford Retail Park had an official ribbon cutting ceremony with store manager Ryan Clarke and staff at 10am.

Then customers flooded in to the shop, which has more than 4,900 food and drink lines.

The 9,100sq ft store will also have a selection of flowers, cards and gift wrap, an in-store bakery and a stylish 43-seat cafe. It has created 57 jobs.

The shop also provides a service for customers to collect orders placed online.

Mr Clarke said: “It’s great to finally welcome customers into the new store and show them what we have been working on for the past few months. The feedback we have received from customers today has been fantastic, particularly on the range of products available and the look and feel of the new store.

"We believe the new foodhall brings the best in quality and fresh food to shoppers in Aylesford and we look forward to welcoming customers into the store over the weeks and months to come.”

The store will be open from 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday, Saturday 8am to 7pm, and 9.30am to 4pm on Sundays.