MORE than 2,000 youngsters have been given a helping hand on the career path, thanks to Careers Wales Gwent.

Students aged between 14-19 packed Newport Velodrome to take part in a careers day.

Over 50 exhibitors were on hand to offer a wide range of advice and support as well as interactive taster sessions in various career choices.

The event, organised by Careers Wales Gwent in partnership with the Blaenau Gwent and Newport 14-19 Local Area Networks, gave 2,600 youngsters the chance to have a go at work such as bricklaying, nail painting, theatrical make-up, logo design, sport activities and many more.

Some students were able to practice their journalism skills and were live on Valleys Radio.

The exhibitors had the opportunity to contribute to the work-related education of young people, informing and advising them of future opportunities and the levels of learning and skills needed by employers.

Roger Harris, the Event Organiser for Careers Wales Gwent said "the event was a great success in broadening the pupils' views of the courses which they will choose to take in the future, in particular to make them aware of the vocational options available".