MORE than 30 businesses have signed-up for a third annual Keighley jobs fair.

Many firms represented at last year's event will be returning.

And there will be a host of debutants, covering a range of sectors.

The fair – at Keighley College on Friday, March 10 – is being organised by the town's MP, Kris Hopkins.

"I am delighted that the event has quickly become a fixture in the business calendar and this year there is a mix of previous exhibitors and new businesses coming on board," he said.

"There is a wealth of different careers available in the area and this a real opportunity for jobseekers and school leavers to meet with businesses face-to-face and find out what skill sets they require to progress their careers.

"From engineering to building, estate agencies to the textile industry and financial services to the health industry, there will be many apprenticeships and jobs to fill on the day."

Among those supporting the event again is Haworth-based Airedale Springs.

Managing director, Tim Parkinson, said he was delighted to be involved.

"We believe it is an ideal forum to show the engineers of tomorrow the local apprenticeship opportunities available today," he added.

"Schools in the area have also been signing-up for the day to give their pupils the opportunity to meet with employers first hand."

Carol O'Connor, the work related and e-learning co-ordinator at Holy Family Catholic School in Keighley, gives her backing.

"I think this event is very important for pupils to meet with businesses so that they can get a real perspective of what the job market is going to be like in the future and what the employment trend will be within the global market," she said.

"Young people today need to understand what skills are required alongside academic skills, so for me it is vital that they learn about life outside of the school gates. It also gives them a chance to ask questions."

The main sponsor of the fair, which will run from 10am to 1pm, is Steeton-based Acorn Stairlifts.

Details of all the businesses attending can be found at krishopkins.co.uk.

Employers interested in booking an exhibition stand should e-mail kris.hopkins.mp@parliament.uk.