Many firms across Kent and the south east intend to take on more people over the next 12 months, according to new research.

In what is seen as a hopeful sign amid fears of a massive jobs fallout in the public sector, new research suggests the private sector may create new jobs, especially for skilled workers.

Research by Clydesdale Bank, which has offices in Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, found that 45 per cent of businesses plan to increase their workforce in the coming year.

A similar number - 44 per cent - felt confident that their business will grow during the next year while 39 per cent reckon it will continue to operate at current levels.

Businesses planning to recruit are twice as likely to hire skilled people, with more than half - 53 per cent - looking for skilled workers and just under a quarter - 23 per cent - looking to take on managers.

But despite improving confidence levels, 12 per cent still expect to see a reduction in business in the next 12 months while more than a quarter - 28 per cent - expect to cut staffing levels.

The research also found that businesses recognise the importance of investing in their existing workforce with 47 per cent identifying staff retention and recruitment as their key priority for the year, and training - 31 per cent - following close behind.

Will Lindsay, the bank's regional director South, said the results were encouraging, suggesting that a growing number of employers were looking to the future with more confidence.

"It continues to be a challenging time and many will have had to make tough decisions to protect their business. However, few will have lost sight of the fact that their staff are their most important asset. By investing in their workforce when the time is right, businesses are helping to pave the way for growth and future success.

"The research appears to indicate that recruitment and training are beginning to re-emerge as key priorities for UK businesses as they look to the future and plan if, and how, they will take advantage of any emerging opportunities."