The number of unemployment benefit claimants in Braintree district has dropped to its lowest level in five-and-a-half years.

In total, 1,779 people claimed Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) during March, the fewest claimants since October 2008.

There were 460 claimants in the 18 to 24 age range, compared to 934 aged 25 to 49.