JOBCENTRES in Washington and Sunderland are to hold their annual Christmas jobs fairs this weekend.

More than 300 seasonal jobs will be on offer at Wearside jobcentres tomorrow.

Geoff Maughan, acting district manager for the Employment Service for Wearside, said: "This has now become an important annual event in our recruitment calendar.

"Last year, more than 1,500 people came to the jobs fairs in Sunderland and Washington.

"Employers were very impressed by the calibre of the applicants and this is a quick and cost-effective way of filling their vacancies.

"This year is also an exciting time for retail in the city, with the redevelopment of the city centre, the opening of the Bridges extension and extended shopping hours."

Companies represented at Sunderland Jobcentre will include Argos, Asda, BHS, Boots, Currys, Debenhams, McDonald's, River Island and Woolworth.

Companies at Washington will include Argos, Asda, Bon Marche, McDonald's and Makro.