FAMILY retailer Wilkinson is to open a second store in Wirral at Wallasey - having reported a record-breaking response to their local recruitment drive.

Approximately 2,000 job seekers visited the Job Centre to complete application forms for 85 full- and part-time positions at the new Cherry Tree shopping centre, set to open in May.

Store manager Gary Gerrard added: "We have been absolutely astounded, not just by the number of people who have applied for jobs, but also by the quality of the applicants. Our open day at the Job Centre was the most successful the company has ever seen. We spoke to 1,500 people on the day and a further 500 people took away application forms. If we were opening ten new stores, we could have filled them all."

All key positions have now been filled and training for supervisors, head cashiers and section leaders already begun at Wilkinson's Widnes store. Interviewing will continue at the Wallasey Job Centre, St Albans Road, to fill the outstanding positions. Vacancies include full- and part-time customer service assistants, evening and night merchandisers.

"I'm certain that the high quality of staff we are recruiting for the new store will play a significant role in bringing shoppers into Wallasey town centre. Everyone at Wilkinson is very much looking forward to bringing the company's wide range of products and friendly service to the town," continued Mr Gerrard.

Founded in 1930, the family-owned company is committed to its people and is the fourth largest retailer in the UK to be awarded the prestigious Investor in People Award. It has a store in Birkenhead, and the Wallasey outfit will offer over 25,000 product lines, including products from major brands and Wilkinson's own brand, 'Wilko'.

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