Matalan is recruiting 4,000 extra sales assistants to help it deal with increased demand over its busy Christmas period this year.

The value fashion and homeware retailer will recruit staff across its 216 stores to help support it for up to 12 weeks over the festive period.

Matalan retail director Mike Jeans said: “We’re extremely pleased to be announcing the creation of numerous job opportunities across our UK stores during the upcoming season. The Christmas period is always an immensely busy and important time for Matalan and as such, we are seeking additional support to allow us to deliver the best possible service to our customers.

“We’re looking for individuals who will contribute a little bit of sparkle to our stores during the festive season. We will be seeking to hire those who are happy, helpful, friendly and cheerful and who can help our customers enjoy an easy and enjoyable holiday season at Matalan.”

Many other retailers are also hiring extra staff this Christmas. Amazon has revealed it will be employing 15,000 Christmas temps while John Lewis is taking on 2,000 temps.