MIKE Wood MP will be hosting his annual jobs and skills fair later this week.

The event takes place at the Merry Hill Centre on Friday September 24 and will offer those looking for a new job, career or training opportunity the chance to meet face-to-face with a range of recruiters and training providers.

Employers including Aldi, Iceland, Lloyds Bank, West Midlands Police, Bluebird Care, National Express, Dudley Council, Forkers Civil Engineering will be at the event, which runs from 11am to 3pm.

Local training providers will also be on hand to discuss opportunities to learn new skills.

The event is free to attend and will be held in the large amphitheatre space outside Marks & Spencer on the Lower Mall.

Mike Wood said: “After having to host last year’s event virtually due to the pandemic, I am so pleased that we’ve been able to work with Merry Hill to host this year’s event in person.

“Unemployment in our area was way down but has since increased again due to the events of the past 18 months – making this year’s Jobs & Skills Fair even more important.

“A wide range of employers will be present on the day, so I would encourage anyone who is considering a change in career to come along and find out what’s on offer.”

The event is being sponsored by Merry Hill and also supported by the local Department for Work & Pensions who will be on hand to offer information about the Kickstart Scheme for younger people.

Jonathan Poole, Centre Manager at Merry Hill said: “The Dudley South Jobs and Skills Fair provides invaluable training and employment opportunities for the local area, so we’re really proud to be able to sponsor and host the event.

“As one of the largest platforms for employment in the region supporting over 8,000 jobs, we’re always looking for ways to further help the local community and encourage engagement with employers in the area.

“Whether you want to kick-off your career, learn more about various industries or embark on a different career path, we encourage everyone to come down to the centre and get a sense of the great opportunities on offer.”