MORE than £2.5m is being spent to transform Durham's former Bridge Hotel.

The premises in Croxdale have been renamed The Honest Lawyer.

As the refurbishment programme nears completion, owner STR Enterprises has joined forces with Durham JobCentre to recruit staff for the new-look hotel.

It needs a head receptionist, reception team, bar staff, night receptionist, head housekeeper, room attendants, chefs and kitchen staff for the 56 bedrooms, bar and function rooms.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the jobs is invited to an open day at Durham JobCentre at Elvet House in Durham next Tuesday from 10am.

An open day was also held yesterday.

Jane Kelly, Durham JobCentre Plus recruitment consultant said its staff and representatives of The Honest Lawyer would be available to talk about the job opportunities.

The hotel opens later this year. For information, call the JobCentre recruitment line on 0191-382 4066.