SAJID Javid MP's annual Jobs Fair returns to Bromsgrove a week today (Friday). 

The event, held for a fourth year, brings together a wide range of local organisations and businesses to help residents who are looking for jobs and apprenticeships.

More than 40 exhibitors have been confirmed for the event at North Bromsgrove High School from 11am to 2pm on Friday, February 23.

Among them will be start-up specialists Blue Orchid, who will hold a 'Dragon's Den' style Entrepreneurs Hub inviting residents to pitch ideas for starting a business, while existing enterprises will be offered support aimed at accelerating growth.

Mr Javid said “In 2016, Bromsgrove had the highest number of start-ups outside of London.

"The entrepreneurial spirit is one of the things I love about our local area.

“Whether you’re looking to earn a little more money on the side, or grow your passion into a full-time job I would encourage you to book an appointment at the Entrepreneurs Hub.

“We’re looking for Bromsgrove’s next business magnate.”

Blue Orchid has a track record of helping local people from a wide variety of backgrounds launch and grow their own business.

Specialist advisors will be on hand to help attendees put together a business plan, secure funding and hone their start-up skills.

Peter Daniel, local manager of Business Support for Blue Orchid, said: “Running a business can be daunting whether its full time or just for an additional income.

"However, with the right support and guidance it can be one of the most rewarding ways of working.

“There is a plethora of support available locally for businesses including start-up grants and free training and business advice/mentoring. Many people don’t realise how much support is freely available or even more importantly, how to access it.

"We hope that this enterprise hub will give the opportunity to new and existing businesses to access this important support to help them build and thrive with their businesses.”

Appointments at the Entrepreneurs Hub can be made by emailing p.daniel@theblueorchid.co.uk or dropping by on the day.