200 jobs created at West Midland Safari Park

The park is looking to bring in new people in preparation for its summer season which starts in February, with positions available in a range of areas.

Around 50 of the vacancies are within the theme park.

Food and drink sellers, shop workers and admissions staff are also wanted.

It comes as the safari park is preparing to undergo an £80 million expansion over the next few years.

A water park, 250-bed hotel, conference centre and spa will be built as part of the overhaul.

Bosses say the development will transform the site into a world-class tourist destination and make it one of the top attractions in the country.

The water park would be built on the side of Bunkers Hill and include water slides snaking in and out of the site.

Theme park manager Marcus Hyde-Flynn said: "If you're looking to join a department with incredible team spirit, with staff members who work well together and make lifelong friendships and where everyday is different, then come and join our team in the theme park.

"Seeing all those children's smiles means you can enjoy your job and in doing so, progress as a person." The park has also announced it will be bringing in the living wage for its workers during January, three months earlier than expected, meaning a wage increase for staff over the age of 25.

It is the second Midland tourist attraction to announce a jobs recruitment drive in the past few days.

Alton Towers is looking to take on around 1,200 seasonal workers.

As well as creating jobs at the park itself, bosses are also doing their bit to try to get young people into work elsewhere.

The park has teamed up with the Birmingham Metropolitan College and Job Centre Plus to deliver free employability workshops.

Applications can be made at www.wmsp.co.uk/careers