Dover has the highest rate of youth unemployment in the county but a new project in the town hopes to tackle this.

Student Makers Markets help young people sell their products directly to the public and learn creative and business skills along the way.

The first Student Makers Market in Dover will be held today (Saturday) from 10am to 4pm in Cannon Street.

There will be handmade and unique items from ceramics to fashion, fine art and jewellery.

Future Foundry, which runs the markets, believe young people should be encouraged to take a DIY approach to career development and job creation.

Director Lisa Oulton said: “Young people are taught to leave school and apply for jobs, but often lack the experience or skills that employers want. Our markets help young people design and produce their own products and then learn to sell them, which is harder than it sounds.

“We need to give young people more reasons to stay and work in the town. I think events such as the markets give a bit of hope that they could be part of something." - Mr Doyle

“They learn a huge range of skills as well as building confidence and networks, making them not only more attractive to employers but more likely to find them.”

The market offers free stalls to anyone aged 16 to 30 with the aim of helping them start a business.

It has received funding from Dover Big Local and Arts Council England and will run sessions throughout the summer.

Frazer Doyle, 25, who returned to Dover after studying glass and ceramics at Sunderland University, said: “I think Dover is craving something new and different culturally, alongside the historic side of Dover.

“We need to give young people more reasons to stay and work in the town. I think events such as the markets give a bit of hope that they could be part of something. Or if not to hopefully come along and support us and enjoy them.”

The markets will be taking place each month.

For more information email info@futurefoundry.org.uk or visit the facebook page Student Makers Market.