FUTURE prosperity and growth in the Great Yarmouth borough lies in the hands of the young – and the many opportunities, some hidden, must be made clearer.

That was the message from council leader Trevor Wainwright as he hosted his first Leader’s Reception at the Town Hall on Tuesday.

The young of the borough were the focus of Mr Wainwright’s speech to local business leaders and companies which operate in the area – from hospitality and tourism to industry, including the burgeoning offshore industry.

And earlier the same day, teenagers from Caister High School and Ormiston Venture Academy were given the opportunity to talk to business leaders and quiz them about what their futures held.

In reporting back to the reception guests, the teenagers expressed surprise at finding out just how many options were open to them, through taking up university places and returning as graduates, to furthering their education at Yarmouth College, or by taking up in-house training and apprenticeships.

Mr Wainwright said: “In the face of a tough labour market and with youth unemployment accounting for 30pc of all unemployment in the borough, we want to ensure young people are aware of the range of industries and opportunities that exist in Great Yarmouth.”

He said there was a great deal to be optimistic about, with North Sea Gas continuing to be a major generator of activity and the advent of offshore wind farms promising even more jobs and investment.

“Tourism is holding up well and we are working hard to diversify what is on offer to visitors by promoting events like the Maritime and Out There festivals and exploiting our rich heritage through attractions like The Time and Tide Museum.”

Seven different businesses talked to the teenagers to give them an insight into what a career in each industry could involve.

The companies involved were: API Technologies, Perenco, Gardline, The Imperial Hotel, The James Paget NHS Trust, Lovewell Bloke, Wellington Construction.

Great Yarmouth College also took part.

Mr Wainwright added the council’s priority was to create a thriving economy.

John Morse of Gardline, the current president of the Yarmouth Chamber of Commerce told the gathering they had a duty of care to the youth of the borough and explained there were jobs at all levels of expertise; and he added he wanted to “share his enthusiasm for the offshore industry with the next generation.”