The television-to-hotels company said it has seen a 13% growth in earnings and current business was "very positive".

The group, which produces television soap Coronation Street, Emmerdale and Heartbeat, also reported strong interest in the launch of ONdigital, its satellite television service.

Granada is also one of the UK's largest independent television companies

The company said the new jobs were created after Travelodge sales increased 17% over the previous year.

Chairman Gerry Robinson said: "Throughout 1998 we continued to build the brands in our growing media and hospitality businesses.

"I'm happy to report that current trading has been very positive."

Budget buy

Granada, which has many service areas on roads up and down the UK, has already expanded its business by purchasing the rival Forte group.

This gave Granada more hotels and motorway service stations to add to its existing business in these sectors.

The Travelodge chain is another Granada success.

It caters for the budget traveller who will often only require a one-night stopover without the need for extensive on-site leisure and restaurant facilities.