A kebab shop devastated by fire two years ago has launched a grand reopening with free pizza drawing crowds of customers.

Family Kebab in Sea Street, Herne Bay, opened its doors for the first time on Monday since a fire gutted the premises in May 2022, leaving the owners heartbroken.

Bosses have been delighted after many flocked to the establishment, with pictures showing queues of supportive customers stretching down the road to give the business a helping hand.

Izzy Tekagac, who runs the business with her partner Selahattin Dilek, told KentOnline: “It was a fantastic night, we’re so thankful to everyone who has supported us.

“We were amazed at how many people came and visited us, and the queues were very long.

“All customers were supportive, I had no complaints – they were really pleased that we were open.

“We have had a really busy week and we’re so glad we’re open.

“We've turned everything back round and it wasn't easy, but finally we’re back open.”

The hugely damaging blaze - which the fire service says was caused by an electrical fault - broke out on the afternoon of May 14, 2022, when the business was closed.

Four engines were sent to tackle the situation with crews using water jets to fight back large flames engulfing the property.

The ordeal gutted the kebab shop and rendered the three-bed flat above – which previously housed employees - uninhabitable.

Izzy previously spoke about how she fell to the floor hyperventilating when she saw the devastation at the family-run shop.

Miss Tekagac was in Whitstable when her mum, who lived next door and had Izzy’s two children with her, rang to tell her the terrible news.

She estimates the fire took just 10 minutes to rip through the building, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

“It was stressful, we had to wait for different companies - things like this, having a fire, it just takes time,” said the 25-year-old.

The family’s misery was made worse by opportunistic thieves who raided drinks from the shop after the fire - and reportedly tried to sell them on.