A supermarket war has erupted in Herne Bay today following the opening of a new Aldi – just yards from an established Morrisons.

The two chains have gone head-to-head in a bid to win customers, dishing out free treats in an attempt to entice people through their doors.

Morrisons staff have even taken to standing outside the new Aldi in Kings Road, handing out complementary sandwiches, hot cross buns and doughnuts.

Scroll down for video

But their German competitor is not backing down without a fight, serving up free hot dogs and bacon sandwiches from a specially erected stall.

Mum Clare Ansell, of Herne Bay, was keen to compare prices, but managed to resist the temptation of some free grub.

“Morrisons are scared they’re losing customers and Aldi are trying to get customers – it’s just competition,” she said.

In a full-scale promotion drive, Morrisons has even called upon professional entertainers, providing a clown, face painting and balloons for three days.

Freya Briley, from Jest4Entertainment, said: “We’ve been brought in to bring some fun and energy to Morrisons because we want to show our customers that we love them and that we’re having a great time today.”

Sally George, who lives in the town, believes Morrisons should have let Aldi have its day in the spotlight.

“I think that Morrisons should keep in their mind that they've got their regular customers and they shouldn't really be doing it on the same day that Aldi opens a new store," she said.

The new 18,000 sq ft Aldi – which has a 72-space car park – was opened this morning by Olympic gold medal-winning rower Tom Ransley.

It is expected to draw in an extra 500,000 visitors and shoppers to the town centre each year.