FORMER Alphasteel's skilled workforce are in demand, according to major Gwent recruiters.

Representatives of Corus, Celsa, Acorn and other firms met with the former steelworkers at a recruitment fair this week at the Orb Centre, Coporation Road, held in a bid to help them back into employment.

Corus recruiter Linda Powell says the firm are looking for electricians and engineers for jobs in Llanwern and Port Talbot and has taken on 12 former employees of Alpha already.

She added: "A lot of these guys have the relevant skills we need."

But as they search for work, former employees are struggling to pay their bills, and are finding job searching difficult.

Former Alphasteel shop steward Peter Davies said the slow process of claiming benefits meant some were unable to put in claims on their mortgage insurance.

"You will usually need a form from the benefits agency to claim on the protection policy to prove that they are claiming Jobseekers Allowance.

"But as it takes a while to process some have yet to receive anything from their policy."

He said he was yet to receive any benefits himself.

Some, like Harry Bishop, 56, of Bassaleg, worry potential employers are looking for younger employees.

"I've looked at a number of options, but they want younger people. It does make you feel a bit rejected."

Electrical technician Mikes Lyons, 56 of Risca, said the redundancy was a bitter till to swallow.

"There seem to be loads of technicians chasing very few jobs. Its a stressful time."

Bosses forecast bright future Employers at the jobs fair said there were many opportunities for workers from the former Alpha Steel plant.

Acorn Recruitment said it was searching for workers with a steel making background to fulfil a seven month contract with Celsa in Cardiff.

Meanwhile Corus is on the lookout for civil and structural engineers, energy optimisers and high voltage workers.

Other companies were offering training opportunities to help former employees find new work, as well as contract engineering work.

Karl Gauden of Community said: "Many have skills which are transferable. Our aim is to help our workers find good quality jobs."