ORGANISERS of an annual job fair are celebrating after this year's event was 'bigger and better than ever'.

Accrington and Rossendale College partnered up with Hyndburn Council to hold Hyndburn’s Jobs and Apprenticeship Fair on Friday.

The Ballroom at Accrington Town Hall bustled with people of all ages - from school leavers to retirees - who are looking for employment, thinking about doing an apprenticeship or looking for career advice.

Now in its fifth year, the jobs and apprenticeship fair was bigger and better than ever, with a massive increase in attendees from last year’s event.

Numerous employers and education providers attended including: GAP Ltd, North Lancs Training Group, Armed Forces Careers Office Preston, Broadfield Home Care, James’ Place and East Lancashire Hospital Trust.

Martin Houghton, training manager at James’ Place, said: "We’ve had a lot of interest today at the jobs fair and even had a few people sign up on the spot.”

Tutors from Accrington and Rossendale College also attended the event to showcase the courses they have on offer.

Charlotte Scheffmann, assistant principal at the college said: “The turn out for the event was incredible – full to the brim and bigger than it has ever been.

"Absolutely delighted to see it.

"We know such events will improve the opportunities in the borough for the local school leavers and young adults, so it’s paramount to work together to do so."

Hyndburn MP Graham Jones came along to show his support to the event and said it is an example of 'great things' happening in the borough.