A resort once notorious for unemployment is boasting a rise in the number of people in work.

Figures published today reveal a 0.9 per cent drop in jobless figures in Hastings over the last year.

The town has the third-highest fall in unemployment in the country, beaten only by Brighton and Hove with a 1.2 per cent drop, and Thanet, with a 1.1 per cent fall.

The figures were compiled by the Brighton and Hove Regional Economic Team, which is a department within Brighton and Hove Council.

Hastings MP Michael Foster said it was great news for Hastings and St Leonards and hoped it would change the way some people viewed the town.

He said: "I think Hastings is on the way up. Obviously it's still a very deprived town but I think it's beginning to get itself out of that situation.

"The figures show people are gaining confidence in the town, although employment is still a problem.

"I challenge anyone who criticises the town to explain exactly why they have such a bad view of it - I believe Hastings has a very bright future."

A major revamp of the town centre has helped the economy, with the Priory Meadow Shopping Centre attracting major high-street names.

Jeremy Birch, leader of Hastings Council, said: "The news that unemployment figures have fallen is a real boost for the town."

Last week it was announced Hastings had been awarded a £10 million grant to fund regeneration, help create new jobs and develop business.

The £15 million cash boost awarded to the South East as part of the Government's Single Regeneration Budget was the largest ever given to the area.

It is hoped the cash will help Hastings, the 31st most deprived town in Britain, to continue to turn around its fortunes and attract top businesses and employers to the area.