HUNDREDS of young people had their first glimpse of the world of work, when they attended a skills fair in Carlisle.

The now annual event held at The Sands Centre was supported by some of the biggest names from the world of business, education and training. 

It was aimed at school leavers, the unemployed and those seeking a career change. Most were youngsters eager to take their first steps in the world of work or training. 

The fair was hosted by John Stevenson MP who was keen to provide a reminder to the wider world that, despite the area recovering from last month's horrific flooding, Carlisle is open for business and planning for the future. 

Representatives from about 80 companies attended Thursday's event, eager to find the next bright young thing. 

Sheila Gregory, senior manager at Mencap in Carlisle, said: "The skills fair is a chance for us to look for new staff. We look for people who show a good attitude. 

"We have 100 paid staff as well as volunteers. Ten years ago we had 25 staff." 

Andrew Hatton, 17, and friend Ubaid Khurshid (BOTH CORR) , 15, from Lime House School, near Dalston, were looking for career opportunities. 

Andrew said: "I am looking into the idea of doing drama tech. I'd like to go to Liverpool to study at the same institution as actor Daniel Craig. 

"I am also interested in a career in the police, Army or RAF. 

"The skills fair is good and I think it helps young people who don't necessarily know what opportunities are out there." 

Ubaid added: "I'd like to be a businessman and own a company. It's good to see the skills fair so busy." 

Andrew Crabtree, who teaches PE at Lime House School, said: "It's a brilliant event and as a teacher it gives me the opportunity to speak to different people. It's a good place to build up community links. 

"It gives the pupils the chance to expand their horizons." 

At the Carlisle United stand, former Blues star John Halpin was promoting the club's education programme, which includes a BTEC level 3 in futsal, a University of South Wales foundation degree and National Citizenship Scheme. 

Mr Halpin, who is now football in the community officer for the club, said: "This is the third year that we've been to the skills fair and we get a lot of success from it. 

"There is a lot of interest which is the main thing." 

Newton Rigg student Luke Hunter, 17, said: "It's good to see the opportunities. I'm studying conservation and l like the outdoors so this kind of thing appeals to me." 

Kasey Grainger, 30, was manning the stand for Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service. 

She became a retained firefighter, based at Wigton fire station, three and a half years ago. 

She said: "I was working in a solicitor's office when I applied to be a retained firefighter. I now work on recruitment as well. 

"The skills fair is a way of spreading the word but it can be a bit hit and miss."