Spotlight is thrown on career choices at fair

(L-r) Graham Chapman, Lou Freake and potential apprentice Katy Bailey at the Havant College stand

The fair drew more than 1,000 people and 53 employers to Warblington School in Havant.

Exhibitors included domestic care provide Bluebird Care, engineering firm Innova Design And Build and the Royal Navy.

Among those looking for a new job was 21-year-old Sam Wright from Bedhampton.

Sam, who went to Hayling College, said he had spoken to exhibitors including Army Careers, engineering and IT firm Peta and recruitment consultants Advanced Resource Managers.

He said: ‘I’m looking for a career, but I don’t know yet which field I would like to go into.

‘The fair has been really helpful and I have got a lot of information about different sectors.

‘The army was extremely helpful and gave me a lot of advice and explained all the different roles on offer.’

Nicky Stanley, customer service administrator for L&S Waste Management, which has a site on Portsdown Hill, was there recruiting.

Ms Stanley said: ‘Today is all about local people for local jobs.

‘We’ve had good interest for all positions.’

Apprentice carpenter Jake Grant, 17, was there giving advice. He said: ‘I’ve really enjoyed being out of school and in an adult environment.

‘I would definitely advise people to into the construction business.’

The Sun’s career guru Jane Hamilton was a guest speaker at the fair, which was also sponsored by The News.

Havant MP Alan Mak organised the event and said he was delighted with the turnout.

He said: ‘There’s been a real buzz about the fair.

‘Strengthening the local economy and supporting local people is my top priority as an MP.

‘Today’s event is a tangible and practical way I can support businesses who are recruiting.’

A planned appearance by celebrity plumber Charlie Mullins OBE did not go ahead.