Young people have been getting advice from a host of employers about their future.

The event called Take Two - Exploring Other Routes was held at Energus at Lillyhall for youngsters aged 16 upwards.

It was aimed at students who may not have achieved the exam results they needed, are unsure of the opportunities available to them, or feel they are on the wrong career path.

It is the first time an event of this kind has been held said Tom Pritt, sector engineering manager at Jacobs, one of the organisers.

He said around 30 young people and their parents attended and gave good feedback.

Students had the chance to speak to apprentices, graduates and staff from employers, organisations and further education providers across West Cumbria, including Sellafield Ltd, United Utilities, Balfour Beatty, Lakes College, Gen2 and Inspira.

There was also the chance to learn about the different traineeships available.

Mr Pritt said he hoped the additional support would be helpful to local students as they started their search for employment.

Alex Messenger who is studying for her A-levels at St Benedict's School in Whitehaven attended the event with her father Paul.

She said: "I'm trying to get more focused on what I want to do."

Her father said: "I didn't realise there was so much available. There are quite a few further education options."

He said he was impressed by the variety of courses available at Lakes College.

The careers event has been supported by Inspira and a selection of businesses and organisations.

Liz Hearnden, operations manager for the National Skills Academy, said: "It's a really good opportunity and it's nice to have something focused on people who are coming out of school. Anything where young people are showing an interest in the opportunities available is a good thing."

She said she was at the event to raise awareness about opportunities for development.

Also attending the event was Sarah Glass who is a marketing and business development manager for the Centre for Leadership Development. She was promoting the Dream Placement Scheme for 16 to 19 years old which is being launched on Monday.

Workshops for interview techniques, CV building and parent workshops were also held as well as an inspirational talk.