Land Rover reported 10,000 serious enquiries from its dealership network following its public debut at last month's Frankfurt Motor Show. The Solihull plant employs more than 12,000 people - an increase of 2,500 over the last three years, as production of the Defender hits record levels and the Discovery and Range Rover also require a double shift.

Rover has set up a special 24-hour hotline for job applicants. Those interested in the positions - including candidates who have applied to the group previously - should ring 0121-700 4173.