EMPLOYMENT experts from across Europe gathered in Bury for a three-day seminar with a distinct international dimension.

The event, held in the town's Europa House, was staged by Bury Employment Support & Training (EST) as part of the Embracing Diversity project.

This initiative, financed through the European Social Fund's Equal programme, involves collaboration with organisations in Italy and Spain and to look at ways of encouraging employment among disadvantaged sections of local communities.

Officials from the towns of Reggio Emilia and Zamora joined colleagues from Bury and Stockport to hear presentations and to discuss a range of topics around supporting people into work.

Bury EST has a long track record in assisting people with disabilities but is now piloting job retention services as well as working with the Asian community and youths who are leaving care.

Local co-ordinator Lee Salad said: "This was the first time we have got together to discuss our methods and it proved a very useful event.

"We've organised a series of these seminars to look at best practice and inform European policy. Future seminars will involve examining strategic issues and the role of employers."

He concluded: "We're working closely with a range of local employers to raise awareness and improve the management of diverse workforces."