IT may be a first-time event, but the Canvey jobs fair is set to open with a splash. Castle Point MP Rebecca Harris will be among those attending the event, along with more than 30 representatives from major employers and training providers. Canvey JobCentre Plus and Harlow College are launching the jobs fair, at the Paddocks, in Long Road, on  Monday from 10am until 5pm.

Carol Pounder, from Canvey JobsCentre Plus, says: “It is the first time we have mounted a jobs fair, but we don’t expect it will be the last. “Employers have been very quick to have a presence at the fair. Some very big names have signed up.”

Among the employers with stands at the jobs fair will be Sainsbury’s, Morrison and the Co-Op. Miss Pounder says: “A number of local employers will also be there, including a hairdresser, a local garage, a call centre, and a large metal and plastic coating factory.”

Other areas of employment covered include administration, the Armed Forces, health and social care, retail, security, health and beauty, animal care, apprenticeships, engineering, warehouse, hospitality, and driving. Jobseekers and those thinking about their choice of career, can find details about full-time employment, and temporary work at Christmas and other peak times.

Miss Pounder says: “They can get a taster about what it is like to work for a range of organisations in a wide variety of different sorts of roles, and about opportunities for training and advancing up the career ladder.” As well as Harlow College, which works closely with Canvey JobCentre Plus in providing training and qualifications, other training organisations will also be attending the jobs fair, including Prospects College, Crown College and the LightBulb.

Carol says: “The fact Rebecca Harris is attending is a sign of the importance attached to it locally. “Essex county councillor Ray Howard also plans to be there, and we hope other councillors will also be paying a visit on the day.”

Places are still available for employers to book a table. Call Peter Hillman on 01279 868106.