A virtual careers fair is set to put young people in front of employers, sixth forms and apprenticeship and training providers as they plot their first steps into the world of work.

The Our Future fair, organised by Inspira in partnership with Hello Future and Cumbria Careers Hub, will take place next Wednesday, October 20 between 1.30pm and 6.30pm.

Year 11 pupils will have the chance to learn more about a variety of career options and network with potential employers.

Deborah Naylor, area operations manager at Inspira, said: "This is a unique opportunity to showcase the breadth and depth of employment opportunity in this diverse county.

"We're anticipating over 4,500 students will attend, for the chance to meet up to 100 exhibitors, providing a variety of different opportunities for school and college leavers."

Live talks will also take place as part of the event, and a vacancies board will showcase apprenticeship opportunities.

Holly Housby, marketing and business development manager at David Allen IT, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be taking part in the Our Future virtual careers fair.

"It is so important to us as a company that we support the emerging talent ready to take their first step into the workplace.

"It can be incredibly daunting talking to employers, especially in these unique times we’ve been in, when young people have missed the chance to take part in physical work experience and not had the opportunity to engage first-hand with employers.“

To take part, register at www.cumbriacareersfair.co.uk