ALDI is creating around 170 new jobs in Somerset ahead of the festive season.

The discount supermarket is looking to fill temporary and permanent store position across the county.

The roles involve replenishing stock and providing additional assistance to customers during the busiest period of the year.

The company says it is gearing up for its "biggest ever Christmas".

In Somerset, it has stores in Taunton, Bridgwater, Glastonbury and Highbridge, as well as an in-store presence in Yeovil, Shepton Mallet, Weston-super-Mare and Clevedon.

In addition, Aldi is currently recruiting for more than 850 roles across its 11 regional distribution centres around the UK for a number of permanent roles, including warehouse selectors, logistics assistants and lorry drivers.

Kelly Stokes, recruitment director at Aldi UK, said: “This year we’re recruiting more people than ever over the Christmas period to support the growing number of customers that are switching to Aldi.

"That includes a mix of temporary and permanent positions, as well as looking to fill both in-store roles and positions at our regional distribution centres.

“Our amazing colleagues play a vital role in keeping our shelves stocked year-round, which is why, once again, we’ll also be keeping our stores closed on Boxing Day as a thank you for all of their hard work.”

Store assistants earn a minimum hourly rate of up to £10.50 nationally and £11.95 inside the M25.

Aldi also claims to be the only supermarket in the UK to offer paid breaks, which for the average store colleague is now worth more than £830 a year.

MORE DETAILS: Apply for a job at Aldi.