CUSTOMERS heading down to the grand opening of the new coffee and doughnut restaurant in south Essex have the chance to win free drinks – for a whole YEAR.

Tim Hortons says the very first customer to be served at its new site at Lakeside will claim the prize.

The restaurant is due to open on December 10 at 7am.

For those who miss out on the top prize, there is still hope however.

The first 100 customers to be served at the restaurant will be offered a free breakfast.

Tim Hortons is a famous Canadian chain which is best known for its delicious doughnuts and hot drinks.

The new restaurant at Lakeside – which will be kitted out with a drive-thru – will also offer a limited edition festive menu.

It includes the Snowball Surprise Deluxe Doughnut, Christmas Crispy Chicken and back by popular demand, its Rudolph the Reindeer Doughnut.

The drinks menu will also include Orange or White Hot Chocolate, Salted Caramel Latte and Gingerbread Latte.

Ahead of next week’s grand opening, Kevin Hydes, Chief Commercial Officer of Tim Hortons in the UK, said: “Our fans have been patiently waiting for us to announce when our doors will open in Thurrock and so I’m delighted to finally be sharing the news.

“This is a huge launch for us as it not only marks our second venue in Essex, but also, our first restaurant easily accessed by those in East London and surrounding areas.

“Our openings continue to get bigger and better, and we’re expecting a number of fans to head to the venue early to try and win one of our launch giveaways.

“Our restaurant team have been training hard to ensure each and every guest has the wonderful experience we are so well known for, and we look forward to welcoming the Thurrock and wider Essex community through our doors from Friday, December 10.”