THE number of people claiming out-of-work benefits has fallen compared to last month and also last year's figures.

The latest job figures for Herefordshire in November showed that the claimant count was 1,085, compared to 1,135 in October and 110 fewer than the same time last year.

There were 215 claimants aged 18 to 24, which is 45 fewer than the previous month and a drop of 50 people on last year's figure.

Mike Dzioba of Jobcentre Plus said when compared to five years ago the overall claimant count has reduced by 58 percent and the 18 to 24s figure is 72 percent fewer.

He said in the run-up to Christmas employers don't usually look to recruit but he said in the new year they will be arranging more job fairs.