THE first Forest Inspiration Careers Fair at the Vantage Point Business Village in Mitcheldean is being hailed as a great success.

"It was met with widespread appreciation at what we are trying to achieve," said a spokesman for the organisers, Forest Inspiration.

More than 30 companies and close to 550 jobseekers, students and professionals attended, she said.

"Feedback from the event was positive across the board with special praise for the Dragons' Den-style segments and the professionalism of all the exhibitors.

"This was somewhat of an unknown entity when first thought up by the committee members only seven weeks ago and we as a small committee were anxious as to how people would react to what we were trying to achieve.

"Success could not have been greater with many local vacancies being filled by the attendees and local school and college students walking away with the knowledge of what career path is the right choice for them.

"With the local support the events organised by the Forest Inspiration Committee will continue to grow, they will be bigger and better and a date not to be missed for employers and potential employees alike."

The Forest Inspiration team is comprised of eight local businesses: Griffiths Marshall, Versarien, Tabs Training, The Warranty Group, SPP Pumps, Simplicity, Forest Means Business and the National Careers Service.

"We are a non-funded committee and our aim is to retain and attract talent to our local community," said the spokesman.

Another fair is to be held in March, she added.