FANTASTIC -- that was the reaction to the Careers Mela which attracted scores of jobseekers and local businesses to Blackburn's Ewood Park, yesterday.

The Lancashire Evening Telegraph and Asian Image newspapers co-hosted the Mela in partnership with Blackburn with Darwen Council.

Top companies, training organisations and colleges from across East Lancashire took stands at the event.

They included the Halifax, the Home Office, Business Link, the Asian Business Federation, Connexions, Express Gifts, The Inland Revenue, Capita, Blackburn with Darwen Youth Service and the Fire Service and Police.

Brenda Rudge, managing director of Newsquest Blackburn, publishers of the Lancashire Evening Telegraph and Asian Image, said: "The Careers Mela has been a wonderful success.

"The day went really well and for a new event it attracted a high number of visitors. Hopefully we can build on this success and make the Mela an important platform for local employers."

The council's executive member for regeneration, Andy Kay, said they welcomed the opportunity to work to help local people to access quality employment.

"The Mela gave all our residents the chance to get information about relevant employment opportunities."

Among those who benefited were Kelly McQuillan, 22, and Victoria Bottomley, 20, from Accrington, who were quick to spot the Army stand.

Kelly said: "I have been thinking about joining for a while. It's something different, with good training and lots of travel."

Victoria added: "It gets you away from four walls and it sounds interesting. And the pay looks good!"

Richard Harris, head of human resources with Time Computers in Blackburn, said: "We've been amazed by the quality of people who have turned up.

"We've actually interviewed and recruited people for our call centre and outward sales -- and we have even lined up a marketing manager. It has really justified the event for us."

Visitor Ebrahim Eman, 20, from Blackburn, said as he left: "It's been very helpful because I have been wanting a job and I will be applying for various positions.

"I've really enjoyed the experience and the number of exhibitors has given me the chance to find a really good job."