Plans to convert Weston’s former Marks & Spencer shop into a charity ‘superstore’ have been praised for bringing jobs into the town.

Sue Ryder looks set to open a 'superstore' in the High Street's vacant M&S unit.

The charity has advertised job vacancies at its 'Weston superstore' with the address given as the former M&S store, which has been vacant for more than six months.

The charity is recruiting bank shop assistants, shop supervisors, assistants and a manager.

In adverts placed on its website, the charity said it is looking to open its 'superstore' in December and job interviews will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday.

MORE: Charity superstore looks set 'to replace M&S' in Weston High Street.

North Somerset Council's deputy leader Mike Bell said he wants people to 'vote with their feet' and use the store.

He told the Mercury: "I'm pleased to see this important site in our High Street will be back in use, bringing jobs and investment into the town.

"There is a lot that needs to be done to drive new life into our town centre and a key part of this is having units occupied and active.

"The council is working on a range of ideas to help, including more events, street scene improvements and action to encourage landlords to let empty space.

"But we need local people to vote with their feet too and shop local as much as they can."

M&S, which remains the freehold owner of the building, closed its store in April after more than 110 years in the town centre.

Its closure was one of a number of big names that have left the High Street this year, including Thomas Cook and Toni&Guy.

Last month, Argos announced its High Street store will close next year.

Sue Ryder is one of the largest charity retailers in the UK with more than 450 shops.

Paul Batts, chairman of the Weston Business Improvement District (BID), said high street woes are a 'national problem'.

He said: "Like many people it was not necessarily my first choice but the most important thing is someone is using the space and creating jobs.

"There is a national problem with high streets even big cities are struggling.

"Rents and business rates have to change to allow more independent stores to trade closer to the areas which get the highest footfall in the town."