PEOPLE in Okehampton looking for careers advice can attend free careers advice sessions at the Ockment Centre until the end of August.

And if enough people use the service, it could become a permanent facility.

The free drop-in service is available to everyone on Fridays from 9.45am to 3.30pm.

National Careers service adviser Pat Balsdon is on hand for an initial face to face consultation to identify individual needs.

If required, a follow up session can be booked for more in-depth support, such as help with CVs and interview techniques.

The service also provides free internet access and support for online job searches.

Pat said: 'After the closure of a number of factories and businesses in the area over the last few years, it's no surprise that unemployment in the town is relatively high.

'The situation isn't helped by weak transport links and the cost of travelling on public transport to Exeter.

'By providing this easily accessible service, Careers South West can reach more people at a local level.'

Initial appointments, lasting between 10 and 20 minutes, are usually available then and there.

If clients are unable to wait, an appointment can be made for later that day or the following week.

The service is also useful for people in employment who are interested in looking at other opportunities, such as a change of career direction or training options.

'If there is enough of a demand for the service, Careers South West will look at the possibility of keeping the service in Okehampton on a more permanent basis,' said Pat.

To make use of the local service, visit the Ockment Centre on Fridays or call 01566 771130 to pre-book an appointment.