AS the end of the Government's furlough scheme looms, Cumbria Tourism is bringing leading tourism and hospital businesses together for a large-scale jobs fair.

The event is hoped to match jobseekers with potential new roles in Cumbria.

Lakeside Hotel & Spa, multi-Michelin starred Simon Rogan, the National Trust, Windermere Lake Cruises, Hargreaves Enterprises, the Inn Collection and Center Parcs are just some of the 25 employers which will be at the fair.

As well as offering opportunities to anyone who finds themselves facing redundancy after long-term furlough, they will be promoting a wide range of full-time and part-time roles suitable for people looking to return to work after a career break or simply eager to climb the career ladder in the county’s vibrant visitor economy.

There will also be fresh roles for school and college leavers to consider.

The jobs fair, arranged by Cumbria Tourism and the Federation of Small Businesses, alongside partners from Local IQ, Job Centre Plus and Inspira, will take place at the Forum in Barrow on Wednesday.

The event is part of Cumbria Tourism’s #theperfectplacetowork recruitment campaign which is helping to reshape perceptions about what it means to work in the tourism industry.

Cumbria Tourism’s head of partnerships and projects, Rachel Tyson, said: “With the end of furlough looming, we know some people may need some extra guidance and support about their future career path, so this jobs fair is a great opportunity to get expert advice and speak to potential employers direct.

“There will be plenty of opportunities for applicants to put themselves forward for specific jobs on the day, so it’s something job seekers really can’t afford to miss.”

Operations manager at the Inn Collection Group, Dan Evans, said: "People often associate hospitality with long hours and poor rates of pay, but we’re keen to advocate hospitality as a great career choice and one that can be as flexible and individual as you with amazing progression opportunities and lots of friends and family perks and bonuses, too!

“As well as full and part time roles, we have some brilliant opportunities for apprentices and access to our award-winning training programmes.”

Jobseekers can sign up for the Jobs Fair in advance at: www.visitlakedistrict.com/jobs