Scotland's train operator is on a serious hiring spree with scores of vacancies to be filled by spring.

Scotrail has already employed more than 200 new staff members since August as part of its biggest recruitment drive in years.

Now, the human resources team at the firm has revealed plans to hire a further 160 people before the end of March.

The company is looking for people to fill roles as drivers, conductors, ticket examiners and engineers.

So far, new and improved catering services have been boosted with an additional 34 catering staff hired across the network.

Almost 30 new conductors have passed through training and over 30 engineers have also been recruited.

ScotRail has also brought 100 new frontline staff members on board to enhance customer service and make sure people pay for their tickets.

The latest onslaught of jobs will focus more on conductors and other roles that will help improve services and reliability for commuters.

Julie Dale, ScotRail HR director, said: “This is a very exciting time for ScotRail and we are looking forward to building on a fantastic few months of recruitment, by filling even more roles in the New Year.

“Our team has been working flat-out to recruit candidates for some of the best jobs in Scotland.

“But we won’t be stopping there, and we will be providing more people with the fantastic opportunity to secure a career in the railway industry in the weeks and months ahead.

“These high-value jobs, ranging from train drivers to travel-safe officers tackling anti-social behaviour, boost the Scottish economy and provide an overall higher quality of service to our customers.”

Those interested in a career with ScotRail are encouraged to check the company’s website as vacancies are advertised regularly.

ScotRail is recognised as a leading employer by the Top Employers Institute.

Further information on job opportunities can be found on the ScotRail Careers website here.