People can find a new job or have a go at learning new skills at a fun and informative event later this month.

The Tendring Jobs and Skills Fair returns to Clacton Town Hall from 10am-4pm on Thursday, 28 September, giving people the opportunity to find current vacancies and even discover a new vocation by turning their hand at skills from bricklaying to tiling.

Fifty organisations will be exhibiting with most stands providing interactive activities, demonstrating the skills people may need for jobs in that industry.

Organised by Tendring District Council (TDC) in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions (Jobcentre Plus), the skills fair forms part of the Tendring4Growth Business Fortnight; the aim is to help local residents into a job, or to find a new career.

Lee Heley, TDC Corporate Director for Place and Economy, said the event was not like a traditional jobs fair.

“There are hundreds of jobs just waiting to be filled, and this event is the perfect way to find a role that suits you,” Mr Heley said.

“But beyond just browsing vacancies and filling out an application, you can try your hand at many of the roles and get a feel for what career might suit you. You might surprise yourself with a new skill that you enjoy or have natural aptitude for.”

Eric Payne, the Customer Service Leader for Tendring Jobcentre Plus, added: “The Tendring Skills Fair is the perfect opportunity for local residents to learn about what work is available across a wide range of sectors; benefiting job seekers, those wanting to develop their skills, or seeking alternative careers.”

Exhibitors at the event include Essex Highways; the Army; Rose Builders; Essex Police; Westminster Homecare; Colchester Institute; Brightlingsea Harbour; Lifehouse Spa and Hotel; The Range; Essex County Council; and the NHS, as well as Tendring District Council.

Activities include lighting technician skills by The Princes Theatre; vehicle maintenance skills from NOVA Training; virtual reality skills training from RWE Renewables; bike maintenance by Essex Peddle Power; and learning about a range of Army vehicles which will be parked outside.

‍