A new bar and coffee shop in Glasgow city centre is looking to recruit 40 members of staff.

The steak and gin restaurant Alston Bar and Beef, which is due to open at Central Station in May, is hosting two open day recruitment sessions today (27) and Monday from 2pm to 7pm in Waxy O'Connors.

The company behind the venture Glendola are also opening up Gordon Street Coffee at Central Station.

They have also launched a cocktail challenge in partnership with the City of Glasgow College to encourage students to develop a special gin cocktail for the launch night.

More than 80 Hospitality HND students are taking part in the competition which aims to get students to demonstrate their understanding of the botanicals involved in the gin.

Alston Bar and Beef will boast more than 50 types of the spirit from around the world.

The winner of the competition will see their drink served within the new venue and will be one of the first to enjoy it when the doors open.

Matthew Mustard, manager of Alston's, said: "For the students at the college this will be a perfect opportunity to raise their profile with some key people in the trade, but will also give them a first-hand glance at what it takes to develop a restaurant and a menu that will attract diners."

Gordon McIntyre, head of the Hospitality Department at City of Glasgow College, said it was a "fantastic opportunity" for students.

He said: "The cocktail competition will be exciting for the students to work on.

"Cocktails are now back in vogue and available in most quality bars, so this will encourage students to learn more about gin and its versatility as a cocktail ingredient."