Unemployment in the borough has fallen by more than the national average despite the difficult economic climate.

The number of people claiming jobseekers' allowance (JSA) in Sutton and Cheam fell by 6.7 per cent in the year up to April while the number fell by 5.6 per cent in Carshalton and Wallington, according to newly released Government figures.

The drops translate to a reduction of 216 people claiming JSA in the borough leaving the total at 3,347.

Unemployment has fallen by 4.8 per cent nationally meaning Sutton is well ahead of the national trend.

The number of young people claiming unemployment in the borough has been slashed.

In Carshalton and Wallington the number has fallen by 27.2 per cent to 415 and in Sutton and Wallington it has fallen by 27.3 per cent to 240.

Carshalton and Wallington MP Tom Brake said: "The falling number of JSA claimants in Carshalton and Wallington is excellent news.

"It is excellent news for the many hard-working people and families behind those numbers, for the businesses creating these jobs and for the community as a whole."

"Whilst the economic situation around the world remains difficult, it is good to see unemployment falling and more people in work. It proves that our economy is on the right track."