A jobs fair promoting employment opportunities for students and the wider community in west Suffolk has been hailed a success.

Newmarket Academy hosted the all-day event which saw more than 25 local businesses speak with students from all age groups.

After school, the event then focused on the community in and around Newmarket to showcase current opportunities and support available.

Matt Hancock, West Suffolk MP and secretary of state for digital, culture, media and sport, attended the event to talk to exhibitors, students and jobseekers.

Nick Froy, headteacher of Newmarket Academy, said: “This is the first time the school has held this type of traditional jobs fair and we were delighted with how it went.

“We wanted to use the event, in partnership with the local exhibitors, to make our students as work-ready as possible.

“The racing industry obviously forms a big part of local employment, but the event also gave us a chance to highlight other opportunities in and around Newmarket.”

Mr Froy said it was great to work with partners at Newmarket Vison and wanted to thank Mr Hancock for his support.

Exhibitors included the Armed Forces, Godolphin Management Company Ltd, Love Newmarket BID, Servest, Waitrose and the emergency services.