Southend was today set for a Christmas jobs bonanza as more than 400 new vacancies were registered at the town's Job Centre.

Bustling businesses lodged details of their new posts at the Tylers Avenue centre in a bid to recruit staff early.

As part of the major drive for extra hands, Royal Mail - which was blasted last week in a national report for its service in the Southend postcode area - has stepped in and created 150 new posts for Christmas.

Potential Royal Mail staff can even go along to a special open day, set up by the Job Centre on Saturday, October 10 between 10am and 3pm.

Ken Norris, marketing officer for Southend Job Centre, said: "This year, we have contacted employers early to avoid a rush. We are absolutely delighted, particularly with Royal Mail, which wishes to take on all those staff at good rates of pay."

Dozens of High Street stores and businesses have also come forward with their plea for extra workers.

Mr Norris added: "Anyone interested in temporary work over the Christmas period should go along to the Job Centre to see what is available.

"Alternatively, for the Royal Mail recruitment drive, come along on October 10 when staff will be available."

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.