The store is one of the UK's largest employers, and is targeting its latest recruitment drive at the over-50s.

Asda's people director, David Smith, said: 'We've found older people can make a huge contribution to our company, customers and colleagues. With one in three people aged between 50 and state-pension age not in work, there is a huge pool of skill and experience to draw upon.' The unconventional move was pioneered at a branch in Southport, where Smith said mature staff 'were queuing around the block' to find out more about the vacancies.

The supermarket has found older employees are more sympathetic to household budgets, have a one per cent lower absence record, and are less likely to leave the shop after a short period.

Asda's oldest worker is 81-year-old Bill Strachan, who joined the chain in 1993. He said: 'It is a terrific feeling to be still earning a living and being of use to the community. Working alongside people of all ages keeps me young.'

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