A major recruitment drive is under way to secure thousands more staff for the ever-growing Stansted Airport.

A number of roadshows will take place all over the region, stretching as far afield as east London.

The initiative, a joint venture between Stansted operators, BAA and airport companies, kicks off on January 16 and will be opened by House of Commons deputy speaker Sir Alan Haselhurst.

Stansted spokeswoman Rona Young said all job vacancies were advertised at the Airport Job Centre but this latest recruitment drive gave those who did not have the means to get to the office to find out more about what is available.

Jobseekers from school-leavers upwards are being sought to fill positions in passenger handling, terminal operations, security, administration as well as retail and catering.

Stansted managing director John Stent said plans submitted to Uttlesford Council to expand the terminal and associated facilities had prompted the initiative.

He added: "With the planned expansion of the airport to handle 15 million passengers a year, Stansted will be looking for a further 5,000 employees over the next seven years."

The airport encourages employees to use public transport and offers a £30 a month travel card to those who journey from Braintree, Colchester and Chelmsford.

Road shows between 9.30am and 3.30pm begin at Saffron Walden County High School and run at Harlow and Bishop's Stortford before reaching Braintree Council offices on February 20 and going on to Newham and Hackney.

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