DROITWICH has one of the lowest rates of unemployment in the whole of the UK according to official numbers from the Office for National Statistics.

The figures focus on Wychavon, which includes Hartlebury, Evesham, and Broadway, as well as Droitwich, and report that the number of people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance for September of this year was 674, a fall of 20 from August’s figures, and 345 fewer than the same time last year.

Overall the Mid Worcestershire parliamentary constituency had the 510th highest rate of unemployment out of 650 UK constituencies, although rate was also down for the country as a whole.

Local MP Sir Peter Luff, said: “This is great news for my constituency and is, in significant part, down to the excellent work of the local councils who have helped to create the right conditions for businesses to flourish in this area.

“But it is also fantastic news for the rest of the country and for all of the people who now have the security of work.

“These strong jobs numbers show that the Government’s long-term economic plan is working, building a stronger, healthier economy, and getting our country closer towards full employment.

“Although families are still feeling the effects of the recession, this largest annual fall in unemployment ever recorded is a brilliant step forward and means that more people are taking home a pay packet than any time since 2008.

“The only way to continue this trend and to raise living standards is to stick to the plan which is getting people off welfare and into work.”