EasyJet, which is to start its first service from Southampton later this year, has announced the largest cabin crew intake in its 21-year history.

More than 1,200 men and women will be given permanent and fixed-term positions at the budget airline.

This will increase its total number of cabin crew to 8,100.

Earlier this year, the Luton-based carrier revealed it was recruiting more than 450 pilots and providing opportunities for its first officers to be promoted into captain roles.

Tina Milton, easyJet's head of cabin service, said: "We're delighted to be opening recruitment for more than 1,200 cabin crew positions today.

"EasyJet is a fantastic company to work for, with everyone across the airline working together as one team to ensure we provide the highest standard of service for our customers."

EasyJet has applied for a new air operator's certificate (AOC) in Austria to allow it to continue flying in the European Union after Brexit.

The airline flies more than 270 aircraft on more than 880 routes in 31 countries.

In December it will begin a service from Southampton to Geneva aimed at the ski holiday market.