SOUTHAMPTON is proof that it is not all doom and gloom on the employment front.

That was the message from Employment Minister Tony McNulty visiting the Wheatsheaf Trust.

He also wanted to reassure Ford workers that work was being done to prevent further job losses at the factory.

He told the Daily Echo: “It is clear from coming to Southampton that Ford is an important issue that many are concerned about.

“We did meet with Ford to seek assurances about what is being done in regards of new production lines and investment that will preserve the jobs already there.”

The minister spoke as he toured the Wheatsheaf centre in Bernard Street, a work and training charity that helps disadvantage young people into employment.

Next door, Welsh Secretary Paul Murphy spoke to young people taking advantage of the No Limits advice and counselling service.