HUNDREDS of young people are expected to attend a major careers event next week as part of the award-winning Foundation for Jobs campaign.

The Career and Opportunities Fair will see representatives from a range of national and international organisations descend on the Dolphin Centre to help young people aged 13 to 24 get their foot on the career ladder.

More than 30 local employers will also be at the event which is part of The Northern Echo-backed Foundation for Jobs campaign which has helped create over 100 apprenticeships in the past year.

Main employment areas represented at the fair will include the Armed Forces, engineering, the care sector and hospitality trade.

Business start-up information and advice will also be available.

Councillor Chris McEwan, Darlington Council’s cabinet member for economy, said: “With exams looming, it is too easy for young people not to think too far ahead as they work hard to get good grades.

“This event will bring together many local companies and training providers to offer a one-stop shop for advice on a whole range of things including what qualifications are needed, what training opportunities are available and what jobs are out there.”

The fair takes place on May 16 at the Dolphin Centre’s Central Hall from 10am to 4pm.