Local clubs gear up for Capital One Cup

There's first round action in the Capital One Cup this evening and the draw has thrown up some intriguing ties for our local teams.

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Employment Minister says youth unemployment fall is 'welcome'

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said that a total of 155,000 people were unemployed in the South West between July and September. The region's unemployment rate was 5.8% and saw a drop of 1.3% during the period.

It's good news to see yet another increase in the number of people in work and to see unemployment fall again. The fall in youth unemployment is particularly welcome, although we're not complacent about the scale of the challenge still facing us.

We're working hard to help the long-term unemployed back into a job. That's why we've committed to supporting the hardest-to-help people over a two-year period through the Work Programme so that we can help them overcome their barriers to work and get them into sustainable jobs.

– Employment Minister Mark Hoban

South West unemployment drops by 2,000

Figures show unemployment has fallen to its lowest total for over a year Credit: PA

Unemployment in the South West dropped by 2,000 this summer, according to the official figures released today.

150,000 people were out of work, or 5.8%. The region's reflecting the national picture, with total unemployment now at its lowest level for a year.

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South West motorists urged to take precautions in dark nights

A new survey has found that 12% of motorists in the region have been caught unprepared whilst driving in the dark Credit: PA

South West drivers are being urged to take extra precautions as the dark nights draw in.

A new survey has found that 12% of motorists in the region have been caught unprepared whilst driving in the dark, with 70% of those let down by their bulbs, according to Halfords.

A quarter of motorists who took part in the survey also admitted to failing to undertake any basic car safety checks over the winter.

Figures from the Department of Transport have shown that over 1,000 more road accidents are reported in November compared to the average month - and with the amount of accidents peaking on November 19th.

Demand for houses rises at fastest rate for over a year

Sold sign
The RICS say buyers want to see what's available before Christmas Credit: Chris Ison/PA Wire/Press Association Images

Demand for houses in the South West rose at its fastest rate since summer last year, according to a survey by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.

Despite this, prices continued to fall, although the RICS said the amount of homes coming onto the market also improved.

Last minute surge in holiday bookings

The beautiful South West Credit: ITV Westcountry

More than half of people living in the South West will book a last minute bank holiday getaway.

Researchers say that the British tourist industry will see a boost in sales over the next few days, with the weather and the cost of holidays being blamed for not making getaway plans in advance.

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Minister of Universities says he's confident students still want to go to university

Across the country, fewer people are applying for university. In this region, that figure is even higher. David Willets MP, the Minister for Universities is confident students are still applying for university and says it is a competitive process.

He says there have been more university applications this year than places available.

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