HUNDREDS of teenagers got a chance to find out more about their futures at one of the district's biggest careers fair.

Organised by Braintree IAG Cluster Group, Braintree Careers Fair was attended by youngsters from Alec Hunter Academy, Tabor Academy, Notley High School, Hedingham School and Ramsey Academy on Wednesday.

The fair has been running for several years but this time was its first at a new venue, Chelmsford City Racecourse, Great Leighs.

Schools normally pay to fund their own involvement, however this year funding was secured from the National Collaborative Outreach Programme, an organisation aimed at helping expanding participation in higher education.

Around 70 exhibitors, ranging from sixth form colleges and universities to training providers and manufacturers attended to meet students and pass on knowledge.

A spokesman for Braintree IAG Cluster Group said: "We have worked extremely hard to ensure a high quality event at our new venue.

"This year the event has proved extremely popular with over 70 exhibitors wanting to attend, and we intend not only to carry on, but to expand the event to even more exhibitors next year.

"Hopefully funding will continue, and this will enable us to encourage more students from the Braintree district to think about higher education in the future, as well as looking at their options for Further education and apprenticeships.”