A CAREERS convention with a difference is being held on Teesside.

Job and training choices are to be offered to hundreds of young people amid fun activities including racing Minis and laser dromes.

The organiser, Connexions Tees Valley, which offers advice, information and support to job-seekers, are holding an event at the Teesside Retail Park, near Thornaby, on Monday, March 27.

Employers present will range from retail, catering, construction and the Army, to arts, crafts and fashion, colleges, social and childcare, animal care, motor engineering and the performing arts.

A free shuttle is being organised to get people to the jobs fair, which has been given the title EET, for employment, education and training.

Organisers have also made deals with two restaurants at the retail park.

Terry Frank, of Connexions, said: "Teesside Retail Park will never have seen anything like it. The whole site will be creative and vibrant, with workshops and music plus information sites.

"Providers will create their own interactive areas and encourage young people to get involved. The event promises to break the mould in terms of introducing young people to the concept and reality of effective progression.''

Advice available will include how to ride motorcycles safely and responsibly, given by Gary Elliston, ex-team manager of the world-famous White Helmets, the Royal Signals motorcycle team.

For further information on EET including free transport arrangements contact Connexions Tees Valley on (01642) 677600 or by logging on to www.cxtv. co.uk