Thornton Heath’s only KFC has closed its doors for good, upsetting fried chicken fans in the area.

The London Road restaurant has been shut down for “commercial reasons”, the fast food giant revealed.

But fried chicken lovers need not fret because KFC is looking for a new location to open another store nearby.

In statement, a spokesman for the chain restaurant said: “We have unfortunately closed our restaurant in Thornton Heath for commercial reasons and all team members have been offered roles at nearby restaurants.

“We are looking for a new location nearby, but in the meantime local fans can visit our restaurant in West Croydon, which is just a short drive away."

All staff members have been offered roles at nearby restaurants, KFC has said.

Regulars have taken to social media to express their sadness following the announcement.

One wrote on Twitter: “I hope they’re only refurbishing KFC in Thornton Heath. So many memories there before we started budgeting our money at Morley’s.”

Another wrote: “Nah, I’m upset that the KFC in Thornton Heath has closed down.”

The fast food giants have at this stage given no indication on where the new restaurant will be opened.

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