Figures have revealed the lowest level of unemployment in a seaside town for eight years.

The number of people jobless in Hastings and St Leonards is now 3.1 per cent, down from 3.8 per cent in May.

Community leaders say the figures are further proof that the resort - long-regarded as the poor relation of Sussex - is steadily on the rise.

Council leader Jeremy Birch said: "Hastings is on the up.

"This latest drop in unemployment says much about the overall feel of the town and the impact our regeneration plans are already having.

"According to the JobCentre, the number of people claiming Job Seeker's Allowance or National Insurance Credits has steadily decreased, as has the number of people claiming incapacity benefit.

"Hastings is attracting more jobs and our economy is improving. Over the coming months we will be encouraging more business in our town centre with late-night shopping.

"Over the next year or two, with the additional business space being created, Hastings really will become a thriving place to live and work and we are committed to building on this success."