Stores giant Debenhams has announced it will recruit 6,500 temporary workers to deal with the busy Christmas period.

The jobs will run from mid-November until the beginning of January, averaging 40 in each of the company's 163 stores.

Michael Sharp, chief executive of Debenhams, said: "These jobs are sure to be welcomed by local economies during the most financially challenging part of the year.

"Approximately a quarter of staff that work with us over the festive season will stay on in permanent roles, making this a crucial period in our employment calendar."

The jobs will be based in the menswear, womenswear, accessories, childrenswear, home, gift or cosmetics departments.

Meanwhile, retailer B&Q said it will recruit 20 graduates under a new fast-track programme offering successful candidates the chance to be a store manager within two to three years.

Chief executive Euan Sutherland said: "Competition in the graduates' job market is fierce, but successful candidates will be offered a fantastic fast-track learning experience."

The PA, photo by Jehan Leanage