YOUNG people in West Devon took the opportunity to Wize up to the employment and training opportunities on offer to them at an event held in Tavistock Town Hall last Wednesday (August 28).

The Wize Up day was jointly organised by West Devon Youthwize and Connexions, to give young people the chance to speak directly to national and local employers and trainers. Information and advice on voluntary work and benefits was also available.

Youthwize project manager Diane Simpson said the event had been a great success with 40 or 50 youngsters coming along. 'We have been very pleased. There has been a steady trickle of people throughout the day. We have had a mix of ages and various queries.'

The event was officially opened by West Devon Mayor Richard Philips — who has chosen Youthwize as his main charity of the year — and Mrs Simpson said the mayor had stayed at the event for some time talking to employers and young people.

Mrs Simpson said she hoped the partnership day between Youthwize and Connexions would become a bi-annual event.

l picture: Connexions youth adviser Lorrie Palmer, volunteers Rachael Hooper and Samantha Jackman, and Youthwize project manager Diane Simpson, at the Wize Up Day which took place in Tavistock Town Hall.