PARCEL delivery firm Yodel is creating more than 350 North-East Christmas jobs.

The company, which has sites in Stockton and Gateshead, says it wants drivers and couriers.

It says jobs will be full and part-time, with roles including directly-employed van drivers, van drivers using their own vehicles and self-employed couriers using their own cars to deliver and collect smaller parcels from customers.

The move is part of a recruitment drive to take on 7,000 people across the UK to meet the Christmas rush, and the firm says some jobs will be made permanent after the festive period.

Dick Stead, Yodel executive chairman, said: “Christmas is set to break the mould again, with nearly four times as many people planning to take advantage of Black Friday promotions.

“Our recruitment and training will support this demand and ensure retailers and shoppers have an enjoyable Christmas.

“Many vacancies are flexible and perfect for those wanting to fit work around families, while other roles are full-time and we expect many to become permanent after Christmas.”