PEOPLE have the chance to find a job for Christmas at a major jobs fair this week.

Jobcentre Plus has teamed up with retailers to organise the fair, at Billingham Forum, on Thursday.

Dozens of positions are on offer as Tees Valley employers look for additional staff to cope with the Christmas rush.

The event will be held from 10am and 2pm.

David Pugh, from Jobcentre Plus said: "This is a great opportunity to get a bit of extra cash for Christmas, or to take the first step towards returning to the workplace.

"A range of temporary and permanent jobs is available.

"The run-up to Christmas can be a great time of year to land a job, because many of the jobs can lead to permanent work and the experience gained can also help in the future."

Other events in Tees Valley will be held on the following days:

* On Saturday, at Redcar Jobcentre Plus Office, from 10am to 3pm

* On Wednesday, September 19, at Eston Jobcentre Plus Office, from 10am to 3pm

For information about the vacancies available across Tees Valley, contact Jobseeker Direct on 0845-60-60-234, or visit the Jobcentre Plus website www.job centreplus.gov.uk.