Independent parcel carrier Yodel has announced the creation of 7,000 new part-time and full-time roles to help deal with demand ahead of the peak Christmas period. 

This comes at a time when unemployment in the UK has increased for the second consecutive quarter, with the numbers of people out of work now at an estimated 1.85 million. 

More than 800 directly employed drivers will be taken on by Yodel, in addition to around 3,000 owner drivers and 3,000 self-employed couriers. 

Executive chairman of Yodel Dick Stead said his firm carried out research to anticipate demand in 2015, which is set to be higher than ever. 

"Our recruitment and training will support this increased demand and ensure that both our retail clients and shoppers have an enjoyable Christmas," he commented, adding that some of the vacancies will be flexible so workers can fit their job around spending time with their families at Christmas.