THOUSANDS of jobseekers from across the region headed to the Daily Echo’s annual Jobfair yesterday.

Scores of people bustled through the doors at Southampton’s Guildhall to find out more about job and recruitment opportunities in the area.

A steady stream of people looked around the 34 stands throughout the day and chatted to exhibitors about careers, training and vacancies.

Dozens of prospective employers set up stalls, from care and construction firms, to the Royal Navy and estate agents.

Representatives from colleges were also on hand to discuss training opportunities and courses.

Visitors got the chance to visit a CV advice cliniccourtesy of Next Step, as well as receive advice on applying for jobs and interviews.

The Daily Echo Jobfair comes after latest figures revealed the number of people in Hampshire on the dole rose by 1,180 in February to stand at 29,958, including 6’145 in Southampton.

The free event was well received by visitors who said they had benefitted from being able to talk face to face with prospective employers and learn more about different career paths.

Richard Holmes, unemployed, from Totton, said: “It’s been very helpful. There are lots of people here you can speak to about different things and covers all sorts of different areas of employment.

“I spoke to Next Step and hopefully they will be able to help sort something out for me.”

Christopher Theobald, unemployed, from Hamble, said: “I had a great chat with the Army guys and they said to go down and see them on Monday, which is really good.”

The event received the backing of council leader Royston Smith who said it was a “fantastic” opportunity for those looking for a job.