Pub operator JD Wetherspoon is to create 1,000 new jobs for 16 and 17-year-olds in the next year.

School leavers will be offered positions working front-of-house serving customers, as well as in the pubs’ kitchens.

The new recruits can also study for NVQ qualifications with the option of completing a professional diploma and honours degree if they progress to a management position.

Wetherspoon’s head of personnel and training, Mandy Ferries, says: “We believe that many school leavers will welcome the opportunity to work for Wetherspoon.

“We can offer them the chance to study as part of their work, as well as progress within the company.”