Christmas is only a few weeks away and with people competing for jobs over the festive season, west Londoners should get their applications in sooner rather than later.

The busy spell commences in autumn and can go on right until the beginning of February. Indeed, notices have already begun to appear for roles, especially in the retail sector.

Bill Richards, UK managing director at job site Indeed, said: "The pressing need for talent at this time, combined with retailers trying to keep up with consumer demand during the shopping season, creates an additional burden on employers who need support from Christmas casuals, and fast."

Students can benefit the most from these "temp" jobs, as the recruiters often offer up a series of flexible part and full-time roles, most of which are also open to overtime for that bit of extra cash, and you can hop on board as soon as college or university breaks.

But others alike will be looking to boost their income during the pricey period and competition for jobs in London remains stiff.

We've collected the jobs you might want to apply for which are for the Christmas period in west London, including Primark in Uxbridge .

1. The Royal Mail

A temporary job at the post office is quite common around the Christmas season, due to the high volume of processing which needs to be done. Although there are only a few in London, such as in Harrow, if you're willing to travel further, you might find what you're looking for.

2. Harrods

Can you tell your Prada from your Armani? If so, temporary work at Harrods might be for you. The luxury retail hub in Knightsbridge is always looking for more staff at Christmas time, and better still, you're entitled to a whopping 33% discount on goods.

3. Fortnum and Mason

Nowhere does Christmas like Fortum and Mason and you can be a part of it by applying for their customer service roles . Their London Piccadilly store is looking for candidates with "excellent communication skills, and an engaging and welcoming style".

4. Debenhams

The home, clothing and gift store is looking for staff in Uxbridge, Hounslow and Harrow to give them a hand over their busy period.

Staff can work anything from eight hours a week to 35 and a half, which offers people the flexibility they need if they're looking to provide their shoppers with "exceptional service".

5. Primark

Applications can now be sent in for Primark in Uxbridge which is set to open in spring 2017. Although this isn't a temp job for Christmas this year, incredibly, they are already advertising jobs for the following year, so keep a close eye on this space.

6. Next

Branches in Ealing and other west London spots are looking for people to work anything from 3 weeks to 12 weeks over the Christmas period. Staff will be asked to work on the sales floor or in the stockroom to give the chain a hand during the busy shopping season.

7. Boots

If you're close to Heathrow Airport , the store at the travel hub is looking for people to assist in December. Apply to be a Christmas customer assistant for the terminal 5 store where there are a variety of shifts available, from 5.30am - 10pm.

8. HMV

Did you know if you're a sales assistant at HMV, you might be kept on if you want to after the Christmas period? That's what the advertisement says for the Westfield role at White City , which is looking for people to "sell and inspire customers and deliver exceptional service".

If you think you have what it takes, be prepared to work around 25 hours at this classic store.

9. Superdrug

Shift work is available at Superdrug over Christmas across various south-west London stores this year.

They are looking for "enthusiastic, hardworking and flexible individuals" to help them on the shop floor and behind the scenes at the popular chain between 6am-10pm.

10. Game

Those in the know about computer games and consoles should think about applying to Game, whose Ealing branch is looking to recruit this autumn and winter .

The store is looking for a sales assistant to give expert gaming knowledge and "use their knowledge to make a sell".

11. Sports Direct

Sports Direct is l ooking for Christmas temps in Southall and although there are no guaranteed number of hours a week of work, shifts will be available on and off during the Christmas break.

Staff can expect to deliver "fantastic customer service" through the festive season and get 20% staff discount.

Haven't seen the right role for you? Visit our jobs site www.fish4.co.uk for hundreds of more opportunities.

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