KFC has confirmed its new store at an Oxfordshire shopping centre will be ready for Christmas but was unable to give an exact opening date.

The global fried chicken chain previously announced it would open a new store at the Orchard Centre in Didcot and has now said its customers can get their hands on its famous "finger-lickin'" chicken by December 25.

Speculation on social media reveals the store could open as soon as next week on Thursday, December 14.

READ MORE: Country pub hygiene rating drops from one to zero in latest inspection

Work has been taking place to get the store, placed at the unit in between Burger King and Shoezone, ready in the past weeks.

The new takeaway restaurant is expected to create 30 jobs when it opens.

A KFC spokesperson said: "Ho, ho, ho… yes, the rumours are true and Colonel Christmas is coming early to open a KFC restaurant in Didcot!

"With it we’ve created 30 new jobs in the area, ensuring your local KFC will be filled to the brim with our famous finger-lickin' chicken.

"Our team will open the doors to welcome fans in time for a Kentucky fried Christmas!"

When asked by the Oxford Mail if they could confirm the opening date KFC were unable to do so.