SUPERMARKET giant Tesco is to recruit temporary workers in Hampshire to help cope with the hectic Christmas and New Year period.

An estimated 12,000 jobs will be created across the UK and will include checkout staff, customer service, stock replenishment and bag packers.

Tesco has 780 stores, including branches at Southampton, Eastleigh, Fareham, Hythe, Lymington, Bursledon and Winnal, Winchester.

Its massive distribution warehouse is at Nursling, Southampton, just off the M27.

The new posts will be of particular interest to working parents, students, and older people.

Retail director David Potts said: "Our stores are getting busier and over Christmas and the New Year they are at their most hectic.

"These new jobs mean more hands on deck at the busiest time of the shopping year to help customers."

As previously reported by the Daily Echo, high street retailers Argos, Boots and Woolworths are also recruiting extra staff in Hampshire for the festive season.