THERE is much excitement in the house amid reports that KFC is opening an outlet at the new Catterick Garrison town centre development.

While I wouldn't want our semi-pretty Dales market town to be blighted by the gaudy signage of an international fast-food chain, I am delighted there will be the opportunity to buy fried chicken and chips just over the hill.

I have conducted a fairly major investigation over the last couple of minutes and discovered that other businesses possibly setting up shops in the complex include Next, Poundland, B&M, Sports Direct, Cotswold, Hungary Horse, Ladbrokes, Brewers Fayre and an Empire cinema. Thomas is also potentially opening a bakery and there may be a Subway - that's the overly-complicated sandwich shop rather than an underground New York train station. I have seen one plan which looks like there will be a Yorkshire Trading opening but I'm not that lucky.

I have checked and checked again and there does not seem to be any charity shops, rundown pubs or hairdressers opening in the new development so claims that the economy of neighbouring Richmond will be badly affected appear to be wide of the mark. I'll have a saucer of milk with that Bargain Bucket please.

Of course, it's the kids who are particularly pleased that they will be able to sample the Colonel's secret recipe without travelling all the way to Darlington. Although I would add that as well as reducing the chances of dyeing cold and alone in a Blackpool bedsit with only a 3ltr bottle of White Lightening cider for comfort, an excuse to use a fast-food drive-through now and again is one of the few advantages of parenthood.

You always feel a little guilty giving your child fast-food. It's all about balance I suppose. Yes, you are potentially setting them on the path to adult obesity, but on flip side you will get a few minutes' peace while they cram the fat-soaked processed junk into their mouths.

Finally, no details on parking charges at the new Catterick Garrison town centre have been announced yet, although I'm not sure they are going to be able to compete with the 50p an hour you will soon have to pay to park at nearby Richmond Station and swimming pool.