The North-East's newest casino venture is launching a recruitment drive to attract more women as croupiers.

Bannatyne's Casino, which opens in February on Newcastle's Quayside, is looking to fill about 70 vacancies for croupiers, pit bosses, chefs and restaurant and bar staff.

The casino's new chief executive officer, Nick Malone, is keen to ensure that the casino employs an equal number of men and women.

He said: "The casino industry is often seen as male-dominated, but we want to increase the profile of women in the business. Equal opportunities are a top priority for Bannatyne's Casino and we can offer our staff full training in a wide range of skills and in all aspects of casino games."

He added: "Working in a casino can be hard work because of the unsociable hours, but there will always be a certain element of glamour, especially when you consider the plans we have for our casino on the Quayside.

"Our aim is to be the premier casino location in the North of England, and to do this we need to attract the best staff in all areas of the business."

The casino sector in the UK is set to expand quickly following the relaxation in gaming laws.

Mr Malone said: "With the expected rapid rise in the number of casinos opening across the UK, the opportunities in the industry will be substantial and varied.

"Those going into casinos as a career now will have an excellent chance of being in pole position to get higher-paid jobs not only in Newcastle, but at casino venues right across the UK and overseas.

"British-trained casino staff are in demand all over the world, so those choosing the casino industry as a career now will open up some terrific opportunities for working overseas."

Bannatyne's Casino is entrepreneur Duncan Bannatyne's first foray into the gaming marketplace. He is the founder of the Bannatyne's chain of health clubs, and is currently overseeing the process of renovating and refurbishing one of his health club outlets at St Ann's Wharf into Newcastle's newest casino venture.

The casino will be on two levels, including a dedicated card gaming area, as well as favourites such as Black Jack, Roulette and Poker tables.