UNEMPLOYMENT has again risen in Worcestershire but fallen in Herefordshire, according to the latest official figures.

Worcestershire's rise - of 45 people - is reflected in figures for the United Kingdom.

The number of people claiming unemployment benefit in Worcestershire rose to 5,863 in March compared with 5,819 in February and 5,774 in January.

In Herefordshire, however, from February to March, the number dropped by 39 people, with 1,804 out of work last month.

Other towns in the county recorded a drop in employment since February, with Evesham's jobless figure at 389 - down 34 - and Malvern's at 438 - down five people since February.

Kidderminster had 78 fewer people out of work at 1,231.

Economists predict little change from last month when the number of people without jobs fell at the fastest rate for two years.