Waitrose is set to recruit 7,700 temporary staff members across 300 stores nationwide in the coming weeks, as it gets ready for Christmas.

The John Lewis Partnership (JLP) is recruiting a record 12,500 temporary roles across the country - 4,100 more jobs compared to last year - as customer numbers hit record levels and it "doubles down on its commitment to customer experience". 

As well as roles at Waitrose, JLP will be recruiting at John Lewis shops as well as in its distribution network.

At Waitrose - which has a store in Richmond - the seasonal roles will include supermarket assistants, night shift workers and customer delivery drivers.

Successful candidates will receive a "competitive salary", training and "potential development opportunities" as well as flexible and blended working.

Charlotte Lock, customer director at the John Lewis Partnership, said: "Whether making sure you're choosing the right headphones or wanting inspirational food ideas for entertaining, we know customers value the independent, trusted advice they get from our Partners and that friendly, personal touch.

"Our partners have always been at the heart of what sets us apart - we're thrilled by the interest the roles have already received and that people want to be part of the excitement that surrounds our two brands at Christmas."