NEARLY 600 people turned out in search of careers advice and new opportunities yesterday.

It was a success all round at The Argus Job Fair at the Brighton Dome, which was our biggest yet with 31 exhibitors.

Among the exhibitors were Clearline Recruitment, the Army, Hilton, Barnados and Hove College.

Angela Potter, managing director at Clearline, said: “There is a big need for good candidates right now.

“Job fairs like this allow us to meet with people.

James Williams, area manager at care agency Hanover Care, said: “This is our first time at The Argus Job Fair and I am really pleased with how it has gone.

“We expected to give out one or two application forms because we are very fussy.

“But there have been ten or 11 people who have had the qualifications we look for, so it has been really positive.”

Freeda O Apenteng on the Barnados stand said: “It has gone really well, and most of our leaflets are gone. It is great to show people photos of what we do and talk to people wanting a career change.”

Jeff Taylor, principal at Hove College, said: “We give people the skills needed to get into employment. The turnout has been great. People are always looking to add value to themselves.”

Luke Richardson, HR assistant at the Chailey Heritage Foundation, said: “This is my third time here, and this is definitely the busiest. It is good to come here as there is often a lot of competition for good candidates. We will be back.”

The Argus Job Fair will be at the Brighton Dome again in October.