Tesco staff in Swindon are quids in they are among workers to receive a share in a multi-million pound thank you for investing in a company share scheme.

Staff who invested in the five-year Save as You Earn share scheme saw their money double with the announcement that Tesco share prices have risen to over £3.

Top investors can received up to £7,000.

Everybody from general assistants to stock controllers and delivery drivers enjoyed a slice of the profits.

Cath Hills, customer service manager at the Tesco store in Ocotal Way, Swindon, said: "This is great news for staff at the store.

"It is a safe and easy way to save and this year people who saved in the five-year scheme doubled their money. "We've got over 700 staff at the store and it's a popular scheme, so I imagine lots of people are celebrating today."

In the company as a whole, 74 per cent of staff have chosen to keep their shares.

Others cashed in on the shares to spend on holidays, weddings abroad or home improvements.

Tesco chief executive Sir Terry Leahy, said: "Being a shareholder in Tesco is important to so many of our staff because it gives them a personal stake in the company's success.

"SAYE is a safe and convenient way for staff to save and have the option to buy shares.

"It is also one of the ways we aim to reward our people for their loyalty and continued efforts for customers."