Westmorland and Lonsdale in top three for employment

Local MP Tim Farron has welcomed the latest employment figures putting Westmorland and Lonsdale in the top three constituencies in the country.

Data released by the House of Commons Library shows the unemployment rate in the constituency is just 0.5%, compared to the national average of 2.4%. It means Westmorland and Lonsdale has the third lowest unemployment rate of all constituencies in the country.

The figures also show a growth in employment this August, with 18 more people in work compared to the month before. The number of unemployed claimants has also fallen compared to the rate a year ago.

Tim said: "This is fantastic news for residents and businesses alike. South Lakeland is leading the way nationally in terms of tackling unemployment and getting people into work. I am immensely proud of our area. These figures are a credit to the entrepreneurship and creativity of local people.

"My thanks go to the district council for their continued work supporting small businesses and the local economy. These figures are a testament to the success of their efforts, and will give local businesses a confidence boost."