THE latest unemployment statistics show an increase in benefit claimants compared to last year although there has been a slight drop from three months ago.

In the latest figures released this week, 4,286 people in the borough were found to be claiming unemployment benefit.

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This signifies a hike of 148 compared with this time 12 months ago, although is slightly less than the 4,400 recorded in July's figures.

Nationally, the unemployment rate unexpectedly rose to an estimated 3.9 per cent for the June to August period from 3.8 per cent, after the number of people in work unexpectedly fell by 56,000

The DWP says this is 22 per cent less people than the same time five years ago.

Dave Brown, a spokesman for Job Centre Plus, said: "In St Helens there are 4,286 claimants, which compared to five years ago is a reduction of 22 per cent.

"There are 148 more than last year, I think that is because there are more people moving to Universal Credit than were on the other benefits 12 months ago."

He added: "In terms of St Helens we have Ormazabal, an electrical distribution firm, that is opening up at Mere Grange and should be completed later this year.

"There is an inflatable theme park opening soon in St Helens and we have contacted the employer who have assisted."