The employment minister has called on unemployed people to gain more experience of the world of work – by taking seasonal jobs as Father Christmas or elves.

Priti Patel said that although being Santa or an elf was short-term work, it could lead to "other opportunities" in the New Year.

The call comes as demand for Santas to entertain children in supermarkets and at other events is at its highest in the run-up to 25 December.

More than 200 such posts have been advertised on the Government's Universal Jobmatch, which aims to help those on the dole queue find suitable employment this year. Patel said:

“With record employment and strong wage growth, we are continuing to move to a society with opportunity and security at its heart – so all families can have the security of a well-paid job. Every day our job centres up and down the country are supporting claimants through our schemes like work experience and highlighting the benefits of taking on seasonal roles like these, as we know it often leads on to other opportunities."

So what does is take to be a Santa? One ad sets out the job requirements:

"As one of the most prolific figures over the last century, Santa Claus is part and parcel of the Christmas experience. To play the part of Santa, you will need to be personable, patient and child-friendly."

"Overall it is imperative that you have a love of Christmas - Scrooges need not apply."