UNEMPLOYMENT levels in the area have remained as one of the highest in the country, new figures have revealed.

Statistics from November show that West Dunbartonshire still has the second highest level of people claiming Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) with 6.2 per cent of residents, or 3,675 claiming the benefit.

The number of young unemployed people has dropped by 11.3 per cent but there are still 970 young people aged 18-24 out of work.

Council leader Martin Rooney said: "Clearly, there is still a significant challenge for the council and our partners and it will require a clear focus on increasing opportunities for apprentices and jobs."