The BBC reports that William Bird, owner of Inverurie-based Fennel Restaurant, posted a job offer on social media following a fire at his restaurant last Sunday evening.

Bird’s post suggested the youths involved could have kitchen porter jobs to teach them about responsibility.

Addressing the youths directly, Bird said: "To the two young lads who tried to set a fire at Fennel, I'm offering you a job.

"Come see inside, what we do, the real lives of the men and woman who work here, whose livelihoods depend on what we do, the innocent diners, locals you put at risk.

"I dare you, come work for me. It's not for the faint-hearted, takes something pretty special. Think you're up to it, gentlemen?"