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Jurys Inns expansion programme means hundreds of new jobs are on the cards

Jurys Inns is set to launch a UK expansion programme securing hundreds of new jobs.

The hotel chain, which currently operates 21 hotels in Britain and a further seven in Ireland, is poised to open a new venue in Aberdeen in September and its first European hotel in Prague later this year.

The firm has also announced it will open new hotels in Portsmouth, Glasgow, Newcastle and Bradford in 2010.

This is part of a £60 million investment in the company's development following 10% growth at its seaside hotels in Brighton and Plymouth with forward bookings for the 2009 summer strong.

John Brennan, CEO of Jurys Inns Group, said: "The success of this fundraising is a vote of confidence in Jury Inns' business model and our growth plans.  Clearly, the current trading environment is challenging but we believe that our focus on superior hospitality, value for money prices and prime city centre locations positions us well both now and for the future."

Earlier this year, Jurys opened five hotels in Sheffield, Watford, Exeter, Swindon and Derby.