AN event is being held this month to boost the region's growing call centre industry.

For the first time in the UK, all the organisations involved in supporting the call and contact centre industry have come together in a jobs fair in the Tees Valley.

Employers, workers and anyone interested in working in the sector can find out about the opportunities in the industry.

People are invited to hear what careers employers are offering and meet employers at the fair.

Shona Harper, a director with Contact Care Professional, a regional company specialising in skills development in the call-centre sector, said: "Although there has been plenty of news about contact centres moving abroad, the quality of service given in the UK is second-to-none, and the industry has a bright future.

"Research shows that some centres are already moving back to the UK."

Alistair Arkley, chairman of the Tees Valley Partnership, said: "Contact centres are a crucial part of the Tees Valley economy, providing services locally and nationally, and we believe that continually developing the skills of those working in them is crucial."

The event is at Middlesbrough's Thistle Hotel on Thursday, March 25. To attend, call (01642) 250304.