ROYAL Mail is delivering a welcome jobs boost as it stages a major recruitment drive ahead of the festive season.

Temporary positions across a variety of shifts will be available from late October through to early January.

The peak of the additional temporary work will be in the busiest month of December.

Parcelforce Worldwide is also looking for drivers and indoor workers as the organisation gears up for the Christmas rush.

Zareena Brown, chief people officer at Royal Mail, said "Our seasonal workforce is incredibly important to our operation and we very much look forward to welcoming those who return year after year as well as those who may be joining us for the first time. 

"Being part of delivering Christmas is a brilliant experience and one that we know offers lots of opportunities for employment and engagement in the communities we serve."

Royal Mail has set up a dedicated website for people to apply for the Christmas positions, which can be visited at jobs.royalmailgroup.com/go/Christmas-Recruitment/4479401/.