Pub chain JD Wetherspoon is targeting the North-East as part of an expansion plan that will bring scores of jobs.

The group already has pubs throughout the region, including Darlington, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, Stockton and Redcar.

Now bosses are looking to expand the JD Wetherspoon empire on Teesside.

Two premises have already been earmarked, both in Middlesbrough, and the developments will create about 70 jobs.

Nationally, the group moved from selling beer to politics yesterday as it unveiled plans to persuade punters to "get shot" of the euro.

All 530 pubs are to be issued with beer mats, posters and leaflets bearing the euro symbol and the slogan: "Let's get shot of it."

Drinkers will also be able to pick up bumper stickers reading: "Keep your job - keep the pound."

The group is backing a campaign launched by No, a non-political anti-euro organisation formed by Business for Sterling and New Europe.

Wetherspoon chairman Tim Martin said: "An important issue facing all businesses is whether Britain should support the euro.

"As indicated in previous years, I strongly believe that each major currency in the world is backed by a single government and that this is a prerequisite for economic success."

He added: "I feel that the euro is likely to fail and that it would be extremely unwise for Britain to join."

Mr Martin's support for the pound came as the group reported a 31 per cent surge in full-year turnover to £483.9 m. Pre-tax profits jumped from £36.1m a year ago to £44.3m.

The group opened 94 pubs during the year.