ONE of Cornwall's leading employers is to recruit up to 100 new staff, to handle "growing demand" for its food products.

Tulip UK Ltd has announced plans to boost its 1900 strong workforce across its three sites, as orders increase for its range of pork and bacon products.

The recruitment drive, which is being supported by Cornwall College Business though its "Response to Redundancy" programme aimed at local victims of the recession.

The College's scheme offers support for workers who have recently been made redundant and will assist candidates to brush up on their presentation technique ahead of interviews with Tulip management for the vacant positions at its Bodmin, Bugle and Redruth sites.

Tulip's divisional HR manager Steve McLaughlin said: "We are very fortunate, particularly given the current economic climate, to be in a position where we are looking to add to our permanent workforce.

"As a leading employer in the county it is important that we support the local community. We are very keen to help those people who have lost their jobs over recent months get back into employment at the earliest possible opportunity and therefore are delighted to be able to work with the CCB on this initiative."

The principal of Cornwall College, Dave Linnell, said: "The Response to Redundancy programme is unique in its support of local people who may been affected by local redundancies, and assisting them through the process of getting back to work.

"Through its ongoing business success, Tulip is able to offer opportunities that will benefit not only local individuals, but also the local economy."