Record numbers of working people have signed up for vocational courses.

Learndirect, the UK's largest publicly funded e-learning network, recorded 129 per cent more registrations in the South-East during the first two weeks of January compared to the same period last year.

This growth is substantially below the national average which has more than trebled, suggesting the South-East has been slower than other regions in seeking additional skills to protect employment prospects.

But the increase indicates spreading fear and uncertainty in the workplace is fuelling a reskilling revolution.

Registration statistics show 58 per cent of learners are enrolling on courses relevant to their current jobs.

In January, the rush of registrations focused on information and communications technology, recognising its importance in all sectors of business.

The findings were supported by Government figures which showed the number of people out of work and claiming benefit rose by 3,200 in December (the third consecutive monthly increase) to 963,500.

The manufacturing sector was particularly affected, having shed 146,000 jobs in the year to November, a fall of 3.7 per cent.

Employment in the sector fell to its lowest level since records began in 1978.

Learndirect director Helen Milner said: "Employers always look to recruit and retain the most skilled staff, whatever the state of the economy.

"Developing yourself through learning is the best way not only to safeguard your job and to be prepared for any demand it might throw at you, but to open up other job opportunities to advance your career ambitions."