WHITBREAD is investing further in Scotland with a planned spend of #26.4m this year which will lead to the creation of some 900 jobs.

That will boost the jobs total to about 5500, the majority of which are in the leisure and eating out sector, which is one of the fastest-growing areas of the economy.

Last year, the group spent #22m on expansion north of the Border.

The main thrust of expenditure is in the Brewers Fayre family-orientated pub restaurants which will enjoy almost #16m of investment.

An additional six outlets will bring the total to 41.

Other developments include expansion of The Hogshead pubs chain from nine to 12 units at an average cost of #1.3m each while there will also be additional Travel Inns.

The size of the Costa Coffee portfolio is to be doubled to 20 shops.

The full-year results from Whitbread are due this morning.