THE NUMBER of people claiming unemployment benefits in Maldon has fallen by 16% over the last year, figures show.

The figures, released by the Office for National Statistics, show that amount of people claiming out of work benefits has fallen rapidly.

The numbers have fallen 16% since last year, and 64% since 2010.

Figures also show that unemployment has dropped from 5% last year to 3.2% this year.

Stuart Barnes, the Operations Manager for the Mid-Essex Jobcentres at the Department of Work and Pensions, said that things were looking good for the District.

He said: “It is definitely a rosy picture for Maldon and the East of England as a whole.

“We are currently enjoying record employment rates in the East of England and many Maldon residents are benefiting from this, particularly from jobs that are being created in the Chelmsford area.

“There are currently 320 people on out of work benefits in Maldon, that’s 16% down on last year and 64% down on 2010.

As well as the reduction in people out of work and people claiming benefits, the District has seen an increase in wages of 2.2%.

Stuart puts this down to the increase in employment helping to boost household income.

Statistics also show that the average weekly wage brought home by District households is more than 10% higher than the national average.

Maldon District Council have welcomed the news.

Miriam Lewis, Leader of Maldon District Council, said: "We welcome the great news about unemployment rates having been reduced, coupled with a higher than average rise in earnings across the District.

"In recent times we have felt real energy from businesses and employees alike, a factor that has contributed to the prosperity of our towns and villages. Long may it continue."