KFC is returning to Epsom after a 25-year absence.

Franchisee owners Iceking will run the world-famous fried chicken outlet on Epsom High Street.

The store is expected to open for business on Monday (August 19) at midday.

Iceking said they would be giving away 25 free meals to the first 25 people who entered the store on the day.

Commercial Director at Iceking Angelina Mouralidarane told the Comet the opening was particularly special due to the personal connection she and her family had to KFC's presence in Epsom.

"The first IceKing franchisee Jonathan — my father — first worked for KFC in Epsom over 20 years ago during the '90s.

"Then it closed and KFC has not been in Epsom for the 25 years since then.

"So there's a sentimental value to the brand with my father returning to open up this store in Epsom — it's where he first had contact with the franchise," Ms Mouralidarane said.

The Iceking director revealed that so far the new KFC outlet was employing 30 people in Epsom and hoped to create more jobs going forward.

"We want to help the community and we've created over 30 jobs at the shop already," Ms Mouralidarane pointed out.

She also revealed that they planned to donate £1,000 to Love Me Love My Mind, a mental health charity based in Epsom.

"We wanted a charity that was specifically about Epsom and serving that community.

"We also wanted to help a charity that might not have the means or get as much exposure as others do," she said.

The opening of the KFC outlet in Epsom was mooted in April last year, but stalled after Epsom and Ewell Borough Council (EEBC) initially opposed the plans.

The branch will be located at 17 High Street, Epsom.