A SURVEY has revealed how young people in part of the region are shunning traditional industries and planning to move away when they complete their studies.

The survey, commissioned by the Learning and Skills Council Tees Valley, found that 40 per cent of those questioned planned to move away after gaining academic qualifications

The main factor influencing their decision was low pay, with 80 per cent citing this as a reason.

When asked what local industry they would be happy to work in, 42 per cent said digital media, with 39 per cent opting for the care sector.

Traditional Tees Valley industries, such as chemicals, transport, manufacturing and construction, were among the least popular areas to work in for the young people.

A total of 100 on-street questionnaires were carried out with people aged 15 to 19 in towns across the Tees Valley, as part of Learning and Skills Council research into young peoples' views and attitudes towards learning, living and working in the region.

Nick James, director of strategy and communications at the Learning and Skills Council Tees Valley, said: "These young people are essential for the future prosperity of the Tees Valley and it is disappointing for the local economy if they leave once qualifications have been gain-ed.

"Local industries need to help keep young people in the Tees Valley by making their employment opportunities more attractive.

"There are real opportunities here in both traditional and new industries and this message needs to get across."