UNEMPLOYMENT in Tendring has dropped but is still higher than regional levels.

The number of people on the dole has fallen by more than 800 people to 2,264 just 2.9 per cent of the workforce.

Both regional Essex and unemployment figures are 1.8 per cent.

Senior business development Dave Cole said: “We are really pleased at the figures which are in line with the rest of Essex.

“The job market is certainly looking up and when you speak to major employees they are now more likely to be taking on more staff.

“Our main goal now is to work with the long-term unemployed and get them together outside of the job centre.”