A hospitality and catering group is to create 20 jobs in the county as it responds to a surge in demand following the lifting of lockdown restrictions.

It comes as part of Essex-based Crown Partnership's push to employ 140 staff nationwide.

Crown is the umbrella organisation of a host of event, hospitality and catering providers operating around the country.

Forced to temporarily close its doors during the start of the pandemic, it is now looking to recruit full, part-time and temporary roles.

Senior partner Charles Beer said: “With many people left unemployed as a result of the pandemic, it feels so good to be helping individuals back into work again.

“With all restrictions now having been lifted, it is great that the hospitality industry can thrive once again. Some parts of our business are already performing better than pre Covid-19."

Founded by entrepreneur Russell Morgan in 1978, the group has served food at Downing Street, leading London venues and the Royal Family over the years.

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