Elgin traffic jams as new KFC opens

Streets were gridlocked as hungry punters formed long queues in their cars outside the fast-food shop.

More than 1,300 people had joined a Facebook campaign for Kentucky Fried Chicken to be brought to Elgin, Moray.

Colonel Sanders’ fast-food firm finally opened at 11am on Monday, with the creation of 40 jobs. There were long tailbacks of cars as people headed to the drive-through on the edge of the town.

The scenes echoed the chaos encountered by drivers in Edinburgh when Scotland’s first Krispy Kreme doughnut store opened in February.

Plans for the fried chicken outlet were submitted in 2010 but were delayed by work on the Elgin flood alleviation scheme. There was jubilation, however, when building work it was finally opened to the public.

Fan Donna Taylor wrote on the “KFC for Elgin” Facebook page: “KFC was amazing. Glad it’s closer to home and speedy service.”

A KFC spokeswoman said: “We are delighted to have opened our new restaurant in Elgin and we’re thrilled by the demand we’ve seen.

“We look forward to becoming a positive part of the community and welcoming local residents into the restaurant.”