DUDLEY borough residents are being invited to attend a Christmas jobsfair being held in Brierley Hill.

Westfield in partnership with Jobcentre Plus are hosting a Christmas Jobsfair on Saturday September 13 at Brierley Hill Civic Hall.

Jobseekers are invited to come along, explore the opportunities and apply for vacancies being offered by Merry Hill retailers.

The recruitment event is open from 9am-1pm on Saturday September 13.

Many of the Merry Hill employers will be represented at the Jobcentre Plus Christmas Jobsfair, including Marks and Spencer, Debenhams, and Argos.

Retailers are offering both full and part time jobs, most of which are temporary for the holiday season, although some positions may become permanent in the New Year.

Emma Hindes, Merry Hill Centre Manager, said: “This seasonal Jobsfair, organised in partnership with Jobcentre Plus and Merry Hill retailers, has been running for several years now and has a very strong history of success in filling retail vacancies.

“Last year, a record 1,400 people attended the event and we are hoping to build upon this success by getting local people into seasonal retail jobs in Merry Hill Centre.”

Specialist Jobcentre Plus advisers will also be there to talk to people about the wide range of extra help available, including offering support to lone parents, people with health conditions or a disability who want to return to work and the longer term unemployed.

Chris Smith, labour market recruitment adviser for Jobcentre Plus, said: "This is a good opportunity for people looking for work to meet face to face with employers, discuss the jobs on offer.

“Short-term jobs offer many benefits and can help people to develop their skills, increase confidence and also provide a stepping stone back into employment.

“We would encourage anyone who is interested to come along and find out more about the 500 jobs available.”