Nando's superfan cuts ribbon on new Hartlepool restaurant

Kathryn Dixon cut the ribbon as the branch opened its doors on the Anchor Retail Park, on Tuesday, March 3, after winning a competition on Facebook.

She won a free meal for herself and two friends.

Kathryn said: “I’ve been waiting for a Nando’s for years and as soon as it was mentioned I was like ‘I need to be in on it’.

“My friend tagged me in on the Facebook competition so I thought I would give it a go and they picked me.”

Kathryn loves Nando’s halloumi cheese and their lemon and herb flavouring but added: “I could quite happily eat everything on the menu.”

The former Frankie & Bennie’s site has been given a complete makeover with new artwork, branding, windows and outdoor seating.

Around 40 jobs have been created and the restaurant seats 114 diners, with additional outdoor seating, and takeaway options available.

Nick Drew, Nando’s Regional Managing Director, said: “We’re excited to bring our signature design and world-famous PERi-PERi to this latest site in Hartlepool.

“It is a great feeling to be able to invite a superfan along to cut the ribbon as well as create 40 jobs to the local area.”

Fans of the chain have welcomed its arrival in town. Previously they had to travel to Middlesbrough or Teesside Park for the nearest branch.

It is the second big food chain to open an outlet in Hartlepool this week following Burger King at Tees Bay retail park on Monday.