West Dunbartonshire's job market appears to be on the way up as new figures showed the area mirroring a 25-year low in the national unemployment rate.

The statistics from the Department for Work and Pensions revealed that the claimant count in the area - the numbers claiming benefits for unemployment reasons - has fallen by 105 to just over 2,000 in June, a fall of five per cent on June last year.

It also represents a 38 per cent fall from the same point in 2010.

The picture for young employment in the area also looks strong, with 410 people included in the June claimant count, a fall of 20 per cent on June 2016 and of 55 per cent from June 2010.

Dumbarton and the Vale's MSP, Jackie Baillie, welcomed the figures and said:

"More people in work is good for the economy but we cannot afford to be complacent. Many of these new jobs are in the gig economy where part time, low paid temporary work and zero hours contracts are the norm."

"There is also a rise in the level of economic inactivity, that is people who have removed themselves from the labour market but many of whom still want to work. We need to understand this better and respond."

This message was echoed by West Dunbartonshire SNP MP Martin Docherty, who said: “The latest employment figures for West Dunbartonshire are very encouraging and I am particularly pleased to see an improved outlook for young local job seekers.

“Across Scotland youth unemployment has fallen significantly and continues to be amongst the lowest of all EU countries, with unemployment overall is at its lowest level for 25 years.

“Whilst these figures show Scotland’s labour market is strong and the unemployment rates West Dunbartonshire are falling, we cannot be complacent in our efforts to strengthen the economy and increase job prospects.

“Following the Brexit vote the increase in inflation and rising food prices continues to put pressure on household incomes, and the possibility of a hard Brexit threatens the loss of thousands of jobs across the country."

The positive local picture follows on strong figures across the country, with the jobless rate standing at 3.8 per cent from the period from March to May - a 25-year low.

The figure across the UK stood at 1.49 million, a fall of 64,000 on the preceding three months.

A West Dunbartonshire Council spokesperson said: “A number of factors have contributed to this positive change, not least the willingness of local businesses to employ local people and the success of our Working 4U service, delivered in conjunction with partner organisations. To continue the positive trend, we will continue to assist people to pursue their career ambitions and we encourage anyone looking for work to visit our offices and find out how we can help.”

Economy Secretary Keith Brown said: "These latest figures show our labour market remains resilient and robust with unemployment now at a record low.

"Our employment rate is also rising, which is good news, and means 25,000 more people are in employment compared to the last quarter.

"When considered alongside the fact that last week's GDP stats show Scotland's growth rate over the last quarter to be four times that of the UK, this is further evidence of the strength of the Scottish economy."