KFC has closed hundreds of outlets across the UK after they ran out of chicken.

Things were not so "finger lickin' good" for disappointed Carmarthenshire fried chicken fans this weekend after problems with a new distribution system forced a popular fast food chain to close it's doors.

Last week, the chicken fast-food restaurant switched its delivery contract to DHL, which blamed "operational issues" for the supply disruption.

KFC has about 900 UK restaurants, including a branch in Cross Hands, with more than 80 per cent run by franchisees.

Until last Tuesday, KFC's chicken was delivered by South African-owned distribution group Bidvest, which describes itself as "the leading supplier of logistical and supply chain solutions to the UK hospitality and restaurant sector".

But after the change in the contract, many of the food giant's outlets began running out of chicken products.

"The chicken crossed the road, just not to our restaurants," KFC said on Twitter.

"We've brought a new delivery partner onboard, but they've had a couple of teething problems - getting fresh chicken out to 900 restaurants across the country is pretty complex." it added, apologising to customers for the inconvenience.

"We won't compromise on quality, so no deliveries has meant some of our restaurants are closed, and others are operating a limited menu or shortened hours."

The statement listed KFC restaurants that were still open despite the problems.

The distribution network uses software developed by the firm Quick Service Logistics (QSL).

DHL said: "Due to operational issues, a number of deliveries in recent days have been incomplete or delayed. We are working with our partners, KFC and QSL, to rectify the situation as a priority and apologise for any inconvenience."

One KFC customer told The Guardian she was surprised when she went out with her grandson at the weekend.

She said: "We went to our local KFC in Cross Hands at around 5pm on Saturday because that is what my Grandson fancied for dinner and the doors were locked and no one was to be seen.”

Other disgruntled KFC customers have been taking to Twitter to express their dismay at the shortages.

Signs were placed on the doors of KFC outlets around the country saying the restaurants were closed due to a “a few hiccups with the delivery today”.