WALTHAM Forest has the 35th highest unemployment rate in Britain, with just 68 per cent of the working population in jobs.

Pockets of the borough are suffering higher than average unemployment figures despite national levels being their lowest for decades.

The council is to launch its first ever employment fair at Walthamstow Assembly Hall, Forest Road, on February 7 to combat joblessness.

Unemployed residents between 16 and 60 are encouraged to visit the event to find out about job opportunities in the authority and partners, including the police, health services and Waltham Forest College.

One-to-one sessions will give people personalised tips and general advice about how to prepare eye-catching CVs and complete application forms. College representatives will be there to offer popular courses that can lead to new jobs and career opportunities.

Liberal Democrat leader Cllr Keith Rayner said the fair would be a major opportunity for people looking for a new career.

He said: "I am excited about this employment fair because it's the first time we have ever done anything like this.

"I am very keen that the council has a workforce which reflects the diverse community it serves. It is largely experimental so whether or not we repeat it depends on the success of this one.

"I certainly hope that lots of people will come along. It could provide the right opportunity they have been looking for. We are urging all residents who are looking for a job to attend.

"Although unemployment levels in the UK are at their lowest for some time, there are still pockets of our borough with higher than average unemployment figures and we hope to give the local job market a boost."

The council's broad campaign hopes to catch residents' attention by placing two banners advertising the fair across the railings at the entrance to the town hall.

Around 30 giant Adshel posters will be displayed across the borough and the fair will be advertised in the local press. Ten thousand leaflets will be displayed in job centres, post offices, libraries and schools.

The national unemployment rate is around five per cent, according to the Government's national statistics office.