UNEMPLOYMENT has decreased in Worcester from this time last year.

The number of people claiming unemployment benefit in the city has gone down to 975 from 1,065 this time last year, and it has decreased by 75 since last month.

The number of 18 to 24-year-olds unemployed has gone down by 22 per cent from last year falling to 225.

Mandy Bateman of Jobcentre Plus said: "A lot of businesses are opening around Cathedral Square. The latest store due to open is Wilko and we are working with management of the store to support 70 customers into work.

"Also there's a new store in Droitwich, The Works. We are working with the store to try and get eight customers into work there. A new KFC is opening in Worcester and we are working to get 60 people in a new job.

"Also, there's a job fair on September 28, for Christmas jobs with Crowngate Shopping Centre to try and get people into work there.

"There's also the jobs fair with The Worcester News on Thursday (September 14 at Worcester Guildhall).

"There is a 'Becoming Disability Confident' event at Worcester Racecourse (also on Thursday 10.15am to noon)."

In Malvern, adult unemployment stands at 450, showing no change from this time last year.

For 18 to 24-year-olds, the unemployment figures stand at 115, down by 15 per cent, and it has decreased by one since last month.

Ms Bateman added: "In Malvern we had a very successful jobs fair last week, 20 employers were there. There was a lot of good feedback from customers and employees."

In Evesham, unemployment has increased to 675, up six per cent up on this time last year, and up by 55 since last month.

The number of 18 to 24-year-olds unemployed has decreased by three per cent to 140, and it has decreased by 15 claimants since last month.

Overall in the West Midlands, employment is down 0.5 per cent points on the year and female employment rate is at a record high of 68.3 per cent.

Employment minster Damian Hinds said: "The strength of the economy is helping people of all ages find work, from someone starting their first job after leaving education, to those who might be starting a new career later in life.

"It’s good news in the West Midlands where unemployment is down 0.5 per cent points on the year. Female employment is up 51,000 on the year to a record high of 1.253 million and the female employment rate is at a record high of 68.3 per cent.

"But there is more to do, and we will continue to build on our achievements through our employment programmes and the work of Jobcentre Plus."