More than eight people applied for each new job at a giant superstore opening later this month.

Tesco said it was overwhelmed by more than 2,000 applications for 250 posts at its “Extra” store in West Durrington, Worthing.

Contractors are working frantically to finish the £18 million complex, which replaces a smaller store nearby.

The old store closed yesterday and the new store, employing a total of 556 staff, will open on Thursday, February 25, at 8am.

Tesco Extra manager Jon Shannon said: “The quality of applicants was fantastic and I am delighted with my new team."