JOB applications have been flooding in as Little Waitrose at WestQuay in Southampton prepares to open its doors.

More than 200 people have applied for approximately 40 jobs at the new Little Waitrose which is due to open later this year.

The full time and part time vacancies were advertised for less than a month yet received 218 applications for the various positions.

Nigel Keen, Waitrose director of development, said: "Our unique partnership with John Lewis is a fantastic opportunity to bring the Waitrose brand to an even wider audience.

“We’ve had a phenomenal response since we launched our recruitment drive in Southampton and we are really encouraged by the calibre of applications we’ve received.

“We are pleased that we are in a position to bring new jobs to the area, and flattered that so many people are eager to work for our business.”

Mark Venables, head of branch at John Lewis Southampton, said: “We are thrilled to be opening a Little Waitrose at John Lewis Southampton and can’t wait to reveal the new offer to our customers.

“The new jobs created by the new shop will contribute significantly to the local community and I know everyone here at John Lewis Southampton is really looking forward to welcoming the new Partners into our team.”