AMERICAN burger chain Five Guys has officially opened in the Swindon Designer Outlet.

A small crowd gathered outside before the fast food favourite pulled up the shutters at 11am today, complete with a countdown by enthusiastic members of staff.

Five Guys has taken over the unit vacated by Ed's Easy Diner last September.

First inside was Debbie Lewington from Wroughton.

She said: “I’m really interested to know what the food is like.

“I used to come to Ed’s when that was here, so I’m really looking forward to it.

“I like American food anyway so I’m looking forward to testing it. I’ve heard Five Guys is quite good.”

For the maiden order, Debbie went for the unconventional approach of buying a beef hot dog. Afterwards she reported it was as good as she was hoping and that she would definitely be back.

A steady flow of customers arrived in the first half an hour and before long the seating inside the unit was almost full.

General manager Katie Elwell was on hand to help staff and customers with their first-time experiences.

She said: “It’s very exciting, we’ve been waiting quite a while.

“I started training 16 weeks ago, so it was a long time. It’s a fantastic job and we’re going to smash it.

“Five Guys is a massive name and we’re hoping it will bring a different footfall to the centre.”

Katie added: “The energy here is great and the music, everyone is always happy.

“If you’re still not sure about coming, then come and try it, we’re fantastic. It’s all fresh and you can have it however you like.”

Overseeing the opening was district manager Khaled Seliem, who added: “Everyone is welcome to be part of the Five Guys family.

“Especially the customers, who are the biggest members of all.”

The new store is the 101st Five Guys to open in the UK and is the first in Wiltshire.

Its arrival will help to buck a trend of restaurant and shop closures in the town, which has lost Coal Grill and Bar and Tiffins from Regent Circus in recent months.