BRITISH Gas is creating 300 call centre jobs in Old Trafford, Manchester.

It follows the company's announcement that it is to enter the UK home phone market.

Householders will now be able to buy gas, electricity and phone services from British Gas.

The new jobs need to be filled by the end of the year.

British Gas aims to have one million subscribers to its new telecoms service by the end of 2001. It is investing £150 million in the new business and will recruit a total of 800 staff nationwide.

Mr Ian El-Mokadem, Director of Marketing & Strategy, said: "With British Gas the savings will be straightforward -- at least one third off your BT standard calls, no matter what time of day or night."

British Gas says switching from BT will be easy with customers keeping their own phone lines and number.

The company stresses that the Old Trafford call centre will be very close to the Metrolink station. Anybody interested in working there can ring the company on 0161-228-7776 for details.