COCKTAIL bar and restaurant chain The Alchemist are creating 75 new jobs at a new Westgate Centre venue.

There are still some vacancies for roles at the new 4,600 sq ft venue.

The chain, which has 11 other outlets, has been named as a Sunday Times Best Company to Work For brand and has invested £1.5m in the premises at the £440m Westgate Centre, which opens on October 24.

Simon Potts, managing director of The Alchemist, said: “We are delighted to be opening our 12th venue in the beautiful city of Oxford as we continue our busy acquisition drive - which has seen three openings over the last three months. People are at our core, which is why we offer extensive training, genuine care and clear progression for everyone who works with us.

“Oxford is a fantastic city full of spirit, intrigue and history - with an unrivalled food and drink scene.

“Oxford is enjoying a real renaissance and we can’t wait to be a part of this.”

The chain said it planned to open the new bar at the shopping complex in November.

More than 90 per cent of vacancies with The Alchemist at Westgate will be filled with new staff.

Positions available across management, kitchen and front of house and recruitment sessions will take place at the Oxford Union in St Michael’s Street on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Staff will be encouraged to volunteer for local good causes with the chain’s Currency of Kindness initiative while still being paid.