NORTH-EAST staff at a supermarket chain received an early Christmas boost when bosses told them they would be getting a three-day break.

Morrisons, which has shops throughout the region, has confirmed that all of its stores will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and December 27, reopening on Friday, December 28.

Managing director John Dowd said: "I am sure it won't be all they want for Christmas, but after the long hard build-up to the big day, putting their feet up for a well-deserved rest is likely to be high on the list.

"Last Christmas we raised a few eyebrows in the industry by shunning the 24-hour service culture and giving staff an extra day off. Our record-breaking sales for the period prove staff and shoppers alike appreciated the move.

"Batteries were recharged and shelves replenished fully, ensuring that on reopening, our customers were served with renewed vigour and the freshest foods available."

Jon Hannett, deputy general secretary of staff union Usdaw, said: "Having set a precedent last year, Morrisons is again committed to giving employees the longest continuous break possible during the festive period. We hope other retailers will follow suit."