17 applications for every job at new Tesco Metro in Tooley Street

328 people have already been interviewed for the new jobs with more due to take place before the store opens its doors at 7am on Monday 14 November.

As we reported in August, the new store will occupy the basement of the PricewaterhouseCoopers building at 7 More London.

Tesco says it has worked with Jobcentre Plus and Remploy to find staff for the new supermarket, and more than one third of the new staff have been out of work for a year or longer.

"The response from applicants has been overwhelming and we have interviewed some very capable and hardworking people," says store manager Mark Pooley.

"I'm very pleased with my new team and am confident that many will have the opportunity to progress in their career at Tesco as I have done."

Mark began his career 14 years ago in a store on Oxford Street working part time as a stock control assistant whilst studying at university.

"We will offer residents and people working locally convenience and great prices," says Mark.

"We have listened to their requirements and as a result will offer concepts such as a counter which will change throughout the day to offer breakfast, lunch and dinner meal deals and snacks.

"We will also provide a range of household essentials and fresh produce at competitive prices, which we feel will meet the needs of local residents."

As well as food and drink the store will stock health and beauty products, DVDs, books, stationery and cookware ranges. There is also a Costa Express coffee counter.

The official opening ceremony will take place at 10am on Monday 14 November when the company will present a £1,000 cheque to a local charity. The first customers will also be offered a glass of champagne and a slice of cake.

The store's regular opening hours will be 7am to 11pm Monday to Saturday and midday till 6pm on Sunday.