THE number of people out of work on the Isle of Wight has risen for the second month in a row according to the latest jobs figures.

The Employment Service has revealed that 2,332 people were unemployed at November 8, an increase of 273 on October's figure of 2,059.

The Island's unemployment rate rose as a result from four to 4.5 per cent, which is treble the regional rate of 1.5 per cent.

Island unemployment rates traditionally rise at the end of each summer holiday season, and the global effects of the terrorist attacks on New York on September 11 are also contributing factors.