FAST-FOOD chain McDonald’s is bucking the recent trend of major firms making large-scale redundancies by advertising for 35 new jobs.

Local franchisee Paul Booth is set to create jobs in Swindon throughout this year, as part of a nationwide commitment by the firm to create 2,500 new positions across the UK by the end of the year.

In 2012, McDonald’s exceeded its pledge to create 2,500 by an additional 1,000, bringing its current total UK workforce to 91,000, with 70 per cent of the new positions given to those under 21 years old.

The company’s growth has been driven by investment in its restaurants and technology, new restaurants and extended opening hours, which include the extra hour each morning recently granted for their North Swindon outlet and the now 24-hour restaurant on Great Western Way by Swindon Council.

New employees in Swindon will also have the chance to gain nationally recognised qualifications while working at McDonald’s, improving their skill-set and helping them progress further in their careers at McDonald’s and beyond.

Paul Booth, who owns five restaurants across the town, said: “The jobs will be across the five stores in Swindon but predominantly at Greenbridge, Cockleberry Roundabout and Orbital.

“It’s great to have some positive news about job creation and, while it is McDonald’s, they are all locally owned.

“I’m confident that in the year ahead there will be the same level of enthusiasm and talent from candidates in Swindon, and I’m looking forward to employing even more young people in my restaurants.”

Bruno Ferreira, 19, of Swindon, joined McDonald’s in May last year and works as a crew member.

He said: “When the management team announced the opportunity to enrol on the apprenticeship scheme, I jumped at the chance to be part of it as I’m keen to continue my learning and add to my CV.”

Employees have the opportunity to gain a range of qualifications from adult certificates in maths and English to apprenticeships and a Foundation Degree offered to restaurant managers.

To find out more and about the training opportunities McDonald’s offers and download a prospectus visit www.mcdonalds.co.uk/people or visit your local careers centre.