UNEMPLOYED job-seekers with learning difficulties and long-term health issues will benefit from a new work placement scheme at a Weston attraction.

The Grand Pier is the first business in the town to sign up for the Department of Work and Pensions’ Jobcentre Plus scheme.

The 10 job-seekers will spend two weeks working on the pier in a variety of roles, in restaurants, IT and accounts and operating rides.

And at the end of the placement, they will be given an interview and considered for employment.

Grand Pier director Michelle Michael said: “We are very excited to be leading the way in Weston by signing up to this scheme.

“We believe a lot of these job-seekers will have something unique to offer and we are delighted to be the first business locally to be able to provide these placements.”

Prior to the work on the pier, they will spend three weeks at Weston College learning vital skills to help them gain employment.

Anne Nock, from Jobcentre Plus, said: “We are very pleased the Grand Pier has come on board.

“A scheme of this type allows an employer to tap into the potential of this keen, loyal and hardworking pool of talented people to build a diverse and multi-skilled workforce, enhancing their local reputation and strengthening the business.”