Online recruitment showed further signs of recovery, with Monster’s Employment Index growing by seven points in October.

Hiring increased across most sectors spurred by strong growth in education, manufacturing, transportation, hospitality and sales.

The highest demand was recorded in Wales, with notable upturns also recorded in Scotland and the South West, while the construction sector remained at an all-time low.

Year-on-year, hiring levels in the UK are down 29%.

Hugo Sellert, head of economic research, at Monster Worldwide, says: “Despite economic indicators showing that the UK remains mired in recession, the solid expansion in online recruitment activity in October suggests the fourth quarter is off to a better start.

“The rise in online job openings to an eight-month high points to an early recovery in hiring demand. Companies across the UK may now be considering expanding payrolls again as economic conditions have stabilised.”