A pilot scheme to boost skills and careers is to be rolled out across rural East Sussex.

East Sussex County Council said the job prospects of hundreds of residents had been boosted thanks to a county council initiative.

A 'Jobs Hub' pilot resulted in 190 careers sessions and 1,250 informal careers advice sessions being offered to local people at Eastbourne Library.

Plans are now in the pipeline to extend the scheme across the county, with aspects of the Jobs Hub pilot due to be rolled out across rural East Sussex next year.

Rupert Simmons, the authority's lead member for economy, said: "We are making great strides in improving the employment opportunities for hundreds of residents, particularly our young people."

Last summer East Sussex Council County launched its Employability and Skills Strategy in a bid to ensure that people in the county have the skills that businesses want and need.

The strategy is a key to supporting wider economic growth in East Sussex.

A year on and council chiefs are celebrating its success and planning ways to increase opportunities for county residents.

Councillor Simmons said: "Building a workforce with relevant skills and training is vital to encourage new investment in jobs in the county."

It was imperative that businesses worked with universities and colleges to ensure education and training results in the appropriate knowledge and skills to suit industries, he added.

The creation of an East Sussex Employability and Skills Partnership Board – Skills East Sussex – had allowed the council to work closely with partners to achieve this.

Over the last 12 months, the initiative has encouraged contractors to create 21 apprenticeships, 785 hours of work experience and 100 hours of on-the-job training.

The authority also spearheaded a five-month You're Hired East Sussex Campaign which generated 699 work opportunities for young people.

The county council also wants to ensure that high quality and employer-led careers advice and guidance are available across the county.

Research to identify the skills needed for growth industries will be used by careers advisers and education providers to ensure relevant training and qualifications are available.