On-the-shelf staff shop for love in the workplace

Office staff are being given the chance to fall in love - thanks to a new Internet dating page.

Matchmaking bosses at a supermarket headquarters are about to launch an in-house lonely hearts service.

The Somerfield Soul Mates page will help their white collar workers to find romance at work.

Staff at the Bristol headquarters can enter their interests, a description of themselves and what they are looking for together with their e-mail address and arrange to meet potential partners in the canteen at lunchtime.

Somerfield chiefs believe that the scheme will create a happier and more productive workforce.

Public relations officer Ms Alison Birkett (32), who is single, said: "Research shows that people in relationships perform better, so if you're happy in a relationship it has a knock-on effect for work.

"This service will give us the chance to meet people in other areas of the company so even if it doesn't work romantically you've met someone new.

"I'm happy to look for love at Somerfield."

More than 1,600 people work at the headquarters and soon IT experts will be joining the company from Australia.

Accountant Mr Jamie Gibson (24), said: "You spend half your waking life at work. It seems obvious you should come across a lot of potential partners.

"You don't stop to chat to anyone unless you already know them so this will give you the chance to get to know people from outside your department."