Eastleigh's increasing attraction as a distribution base for national and international companies is fuelling a big demand for delivery drivers.

A job agency that specialises in recruiting drivers says employer hiring confidence in the transport sector is very positive.

The need for more drivers has been accelerated as the rush begins to get orders out in the build-up to Christmas.

Manpower Driving says that there are strong job prospects for drivers in and around Eastleigh.

Zoe MacKenzie, business manager for Manpower Driving in Eastleigh, says: "Our most recent Manpower Employment Outlook Survey shows job prospects for the transport industry, which includes jobs in the air, rail and freight are positive."

She said that 20 per cent of employers were looking to take on more staff for the months of October to December.

"The demand for drivers in the Eastleigh area continues to outweigh the available supply, particularly in this busy run-up to Christmas." Zoe added: "Eastleigh is a great commercial town, home to a number of national and international businesses.

"It is close proximity to both Southampton Airport and the M3 and M27 make it an ideal location for the quick and easy distribution of goods around the United Kingdom. This had led to many distribution companies in the region looking to recruit more commercial drivers.

"We provide drivers and logistics staff to all sizes of companies, both on national and local basis, and are currently looking for reliable, flexible drivers for all licence categories but especially for those holding a Class 1 licence."

Eastleigh MP David Chidgey said: "I am very pleased that there are more opportunities for drivers the Eastleigh area."

But he hoped that there would be enough driver training facilities to ensure that these job opportunities could be taken up.

For details about vacancies contact Manpower Driving on 023 8062 9393 or visit the branch at 23 High Street, Eastleigh.