The Scottish recruitment market has seen a rise in appointments and a growth in skills shortages, according to the latest labour report from the Bank of Scotland.

During April, the latest month for which figures are available, the Bank of Scotland’s labour market barometer rose to its highest level since data was first collected in January 2003.

The number of people placed in permanent jobs in Scotland increased for the ninth successive month, while agency billings for temporary and contract staff in April exceeded those of the previous month.

Glasgow was the area worst hit by a shortage of candidates, and recruiters reported sharp increases in salaries as a result.