SOUTHAMPTON'S premier recruitment and training event, the Southern Daily Echo Job Scene Roadshow, will be starting at the city's Guildhall today.

Dozens of employers will be setting up stalls to showcase jobs and training opportunities on offer to the thousands of visitors who will pass through the doors during the eight-hour event.

Along with a wealth of information and opportunities, visitors to the show can also chat to those already employed in their chosen field and find out how best to capture that perfect job.

Prestigious companies lined up to take part in the event include Abbey National, Ajilon Finance Ltd, B&Q head office, Barclays Bank, Capita Resourcing, Flame, McDonald Hotel Group, the Royal Navy and Royal Marines, Southern Co-operatives and WestQuay.

As well as businesses looking to recruit, many training organisations will also be represented at the event at a dedicated 'Training Village' within the hall.

These include Apprenticeship Training Ltd, Eastpoint Training Ltd, FNTC, Link2Learn, Protocol Skills, Retail Motor Industry Training and Southampton City Training.

There will also be experts on hand to help people brush up on CV-writing skills and interview techniques, as well as information for those looking to set up their own business.

One regular to the roadshow, Val Godfroy from the University of Southampton School of Nursing and Midwifery, explained the value of face-to-face contact at these events.

She said: "Job Scene gives us the chance to meet people.

"Face-to-face contact is the best method and gives us the opportunity to create a good impression.

"Visitors will talk to other universities but, because I've created a friendly impression, they want to come and study with us."

The Job Scene Roadshow, which has been sponsored by the Daily Echo along with partners Southampton City Council and Power FM, will be open at the Southampton Guildhall from 10.30am until 7pm. Admission is free.

For further information contact Freecall 0500 026120 or www.jobscene uk.co.uk