GLASGOW has won a jobs boost after ScottishPower announced 340 new posts.

The energy giant pledged to create customer service and middle-management roles in Glasgow as it boosts its retail operations.

It came on the day Alex Salmond opened a new £100 million investment fund in an attempt to make Scotland a key destination.

ScottishPower announced the 300 posts after a retendering process and to strengthen its existing team.

It has agreed a three-year deal with Glasgow-based Response UK to take customer calls and, in particular, handle inquiries from households it supplies with gas and electricity.

A further 40 jobs have been created to support its Home Comfort products, which includes boiler maintenance.

This deal has gone to Sierra Support Services, providing roles from boiler engineers to back office support staff.

At the Scottish Low Carbon Investment Conference in Edinburgh, ScottishPower chairman Ignacio Galan said: "Despite global financial uncertainty, the energy sector has the potential to become an engine of economic growth and recovery.

"Indeed, more than ever, the industry's role as driver of investment and job creation will be crucial for future prosperity."

Neil Clitheroe, chief executive of retail and generation, added: "The roles will help to support our continued focus on customer service improvements."