Hundreds of career and volunteering opportunities will be up for grabs later this month, when employers will be on the hunt for talented individuals at Weston-super-Mare Jobs Fair.

The jobs fair will be held at Weston College Conference Centre, in Lower Church Road, on February 28 from 3-7pm.

The employment showcase is the brainchild of Weston MP John Penrose, who wants to build on the success of previous fairs.

He said: “The last jobs fair worked really well, with more than 1,000 attendees and more employers than ever before.

“But we’re always trying to improve it so, when local firms asked for a second jobs fair during their spring hiring season, we decided to help.

“Instead of a lunchtime event, this one will run from 3-7pm. That way it’s more convenient for people who already have jobs but are looking for their next step up the ladder, or for students who want to come along after classes are finished.”

Mr Penrose is ‘delighted’ with the range of employers which have signed up to the fair.

He commented: “Some of our biggest local employers will be at this year’s fair, like Bristol Airport, McDonald’s and Weston College, plus charities like Brandon Trust who do brilliant work for people with autism and learning disabilities.

“But if you prefer the small company feeling, we’ve got dozens of great smaller firms looking to hire new talent as well.”

The fair will also feature a new employability zone, with employment experts on hand to give you the advice you need, whether you are long-term unemployed, returning after maternity leave, have a disability or fancy a career change.

Mr Penrose added: “There’s a new employability zone this year, for jobseekers who want a bit of extra help finding their next role.

“Whether you’re an older jobseeker, someone who works with a disability or a parent returning to the job market now your children are a bit older, we’ve got plenty of experts ready to help.”

Karen Upward, of Lambtrad, which operates Weston’s McDonald’s restaurants, told the Mercury: “We’re definitely excited about the fair. It’s a really good event and it’s well organised.

“There is always a lot of diversity in terms of the people which attend the event, which is great for us as we are looking for people across the spectrum. We’re looking for people of all ages, not just youngsters.

“The later start time of the event is really good and I think it will attract more people.

“It’s a really positive show and we look forward to it every year.”

Bristol Airport will also be at the fair, showcasing a diverse range of career opportunities.

Louise McMilan, people and performance manager at the airport, said: “Bristol Airport is delighted to be attending the jobs fair to highlight the range of current job opportunities on offer.

“The airport will be teaming up with other employers based across its site at the event giving prospective candidates the chance to find out more about the different roles available from customer service, hospitality, retail, airline handling and security.”

For more information about Weston Jobs Fair, visit www.facebook.com/events/1885584755033323/