Marks & Spencer has launched a recruitment drive for 410 seasonal staff in its Northern Ireland stores ahead of the busy Christmas period.

The retailer is hiring staff for the food, clothing and home departments in each of the 22 stores it runs in Northern Ireland.

Across the UK the company is hiring 11,000 staff for the Christmas period. Last year seasonal staff worked 103,000 hours in M&S stores.

The open roles are as customer assistants, and M&S says that seasonal staff have the chance to progress to further work with M&S.

It cites the example of Stephanie McCann who was hired for a seasonal role last October, and now has a permanent job as a team support manager.

Mrs McCann said: “I’ve always been passionate about delivering the best experience for our customers, and M&S has given me the opportunity to grow and develop in ways I never imagined.

“The support I’ve received has been incredible, and I’m excited to take on new challenges as I continue my journey towards a management role.”

Ryan Lemon, regional manager for M&S in Northern Ireland, said: “Our colleagues are at the heart of M&S, especially during the festive season.

“This year, we’re bringing even more people on board to ensure we’re fully equipped to offer exceptional service to our customers.

“For anyone who wants to be part of something special this Christmas, we encourage you to apply for one of our flexible roles.

“We’re calling for 410 enthusiastic, customer-focused individuals to join us in making it a memorable Christmas for M&S shoppers across Northern Ireland.”

Marks and Spencer has this year opened a new store in Co Londonderry. The new location, situated in Coleraine’s Riverside Retail Park, created 30 new jobs.