EIGHTY jobs will be created ahead of East Lothian's first McDonald's opening next month.

The restaurant opens its doors on November 18 with the fast-food chain already recruiting ahead of the big day.

Graham McCusker, who will manage the restaurant on Spott Road, told the Courier: “We’re delighted to be bringing 80 new jobs to the Dunbar and wider East Lothian area.

“Myself and the team are very much looking forward to becoming a part of the community and participating in local environmental and sporting initiatives.

“Investing in the development of our staff is at the core of our business.

“Ensuring our people have a good learning ladder of opportunities ahead of them not only benefits their careers but also helps us deliver consistently high levels of customer service.”

Planning permission was given at the end of March for the restaurant, which will feature a drive-thru.

The restaurant, which will back onto the A1, will be home to 107 covers, with a drive-thru at the south-east side and parking for more than 30 cars.

When planning permission was given, Councillor Paul McLennan “cautiously welcomed” the scheme.

He said: “I think, obviously, it has been on the cards for quite a while.

“The area has been opened for fast food for quite a considerable time so it was no surprise McDonald's put in an application.”

Meanwhile, ward colleague Norman Hampshire was “delighted” that a company as big as McDonald's was looking at Dunbar.

The restaurant's opening means only Argyll and Bute is left as the only council area in mainland Scotland not to have a McDonald's.

For more information, www.mcdonalds.co.uk/careers.