An extra 50 jobs are being created by an East Lancs bakery after securing a string of new prioduct deals.

Bosses at Cherry Tree Bakery in Burnley are launching a major recruitment drive following a series of contract wins with major national retailers.

And the Billington Road based outfit is rolling out a new weekend shift to meet orders.

A new production line is being introduced, amid further plans to launch a second this summer to keep up with its obligations.

Turnover has already doubled at the long-established bakery during the past three years.

Now a recruitment open day is scheduled for the end of the month, to swell their 120-strong workforce.

Would-be workers are being invited to find out more at the jobs gathering, at Burnley FC's Turf Moor ground, next Tuesday, from 10am to 10pm.

Potential candidates will be able to find out more information about a range of different roles on offer and can take part in interviews with the Cherrytree team.

Christine Quigley, the company's human resource manager, said: “We have enjoyed a number of years of successful growth and demand continues to be high which is why we need to introduce the new Friday to Monday shift.

“We’re looking for people who have the drive and energy to work for us and who want to achieve their potential.”

Managing director Mark Beaumont added: “We work for some fantastic clients and there is career progression for those who want it.

"Most importantly, we are looking for hard working, reliable individuals who take pride in what they do.”

The jobs will cover all areas of production and packing from machine set up, machine operation, making, baking, quality-checking, and packing.

The bakery was founded in 1984 by executive chairman Gary Entwistle, and makes muffins, traybakes and Chorley cakes for a large number of customers, including leading supermarkets and coffee shops.

For more details and to apply online, visit Cherry Tree Bakery's website.