Mecca Bingo has announced a second potential new bingo site in the last few days. We reported how it had been confirmed over the weekend that Mecca was looking for a site in Walthamstow. Today it has been reported that the gaming giant which is looking to open another site in North Staffordshire. This would add another 50 jobs to the local economy and the help of the local residents is being sought to find a suitable site. Mecca is offering a cash payment for the ideal referral.

It seems while many land based bingo operators in recent years have been closing and selling off their bingo clubs, Mecca is taking the bold move of looking at opening further UK bingo clubs.

Mecca Bingo already has a venue on the Octagon Retail Park, in Hanley, but is 'actively seeking' a further suitable site in Newcastle.

The Mecca Bingo managing director, Mark Jones, said: "We are actively seeking a new location in Newcastle as we are keen to open one of our new-look leisure venues in the area.

"Not only will it bring much-needed employment opportunities to the area but it will also offer locals a new female-friendly sociable gaming concept which is an attractive alternative to standard leisure activities such as the cinema or going to the pub.

"Our new style clubs offer live entertainment, food which is cooked to order and the chance to take part in some fun gaming."

The ideal site would be on a prominent A-road on a retail or leisure park close to large residential areas and have at least 150 car parking spaces.

Mr Jones added: "A fee will be paid for successful introductions."

Councillor Robin Studd, said the authority would help the gaming giant to identify a suitable site.

He added: "In principle we would welcome plans that would create jobs for local people and boost the economy so we would be more than happy to support the company in trying to identify a suitable location."