The retailer is getting ready for the festive season by taking on 9,000 new staff and putting on a 3 for 2 sale on all toys.

Approximately 8,000 customer helpers will be recruited, as well as 1,000 drivers to help with deliveries.

Argos said it will offer new starters a minimum of 12 hours a week, with six for weekend staff.

Steve Carson, director of retail and customer operations at Argos, said: “We need extra support in our stores and we’re looking for people who are customer focused, energetic and enthusiastic.”

A 3 for 2 deal on toys is running now and will end at 11.59pm on Tuesday 29th September. The deal, where you buy any three toys and the cheapest is free, includes everything from Lego sets to Barbie dolls. Items already reduced in clearance are included, but video games and consoles are not.