Thousands of Morrisons workers are celebrating today after discovering they will share a record £12.5 million in their annual profit payout.

The cash will be divided between 26,399 of the company's employees, with 2,359 members of staff in Bradford receiving the equivalent of an extra two weeks' pay.

The extra cash has been awarded on the back of increases in turnover and profits announced last month.

Bob Stott, the company's joint managing director, said: "We have a super team and they have made a terrific contribution to the company's success.

"This is a thankyou for the energy, skill and enthusiasm they have shown throughout the year."

In 1978 Morrisons was one of the first companies to introduce a profit share scheme, when 1,466 employees split £188,000.

Now serving more than three million shoppers every week, the company has announced its 35th successive rise in sales and profits, reporting an annual turnover of £3.9 billion, up 11.9 per cent on last year.

The profit share will be awarded to all employees who have worked a full financial year and are still employed in April.

All recipients of this year's profit share will also be invited to take part in the company's 2002 share offer giving them the opportunity to buy shares in the company at a discounted price.

Over the next 12 months Morrisons plans to create 2,000 new jobs with the opening of six new stores.

Sir Ken Morrison said: "Though the market is as tough and competitive as ever, we are maintaining our momentum.

"We have a skilled and experienced team committed to delivering the very best for less and are well positioned to achieve further solid growth."

Staff at the company's shops across Bradford were delighted with the profit share payout.

Tony Grant, deputy general manager at Morrisons on Mayo Avenue, said: "It's put a smile on the faces of many staff here. Everyone always has an extra spring in their step at profit share time."

Mark Trainer, fresh food pre-pack manager at Morrison's Victoria Store, off Ingleby Road, Girlington, said: "I've spent mine already, I've put it towards my summer holiday!"